Tản mạn: CJI - IN OUR SHARED MISSION

In our shared mission, Jesuits are always conscious of the need to collaborate with others for the common good. I felt deeply inspired when I had the opportunity to join the summer ministry at Canadian Jesuit International (CJI). 

As a newcomer who had only recently arrived in Toronto—with many new things to learn—I was a little nervous about working at an international solidarity agency of the Jesuits of Canada. I was worried about my limited English and my lack of experience working within an international network.

However, everything unfolded gently when the CJI Team welcomed me and the other volunteers. They guided me through the initial orientation and then invited me to choose the areas where I felt called to contribute. Throughout my time there, the team was always available to support me, explain each task clearly, and help me understand the proper processes whenever I felt unsure.

Ignatian Spirituality was a common thread I recognized in all my experiences at CJI. As an organization developed by the Jesuits of the Canada Province and rooted in Ignatian Spirituality and the Jesuit mission, CJI felt very familiar to me—very close to what I am living for. Their mission and vision reflect what we Jesuits promote through the four Universal Apostolic Preferences. The only difference is that they are lay collaborators who generously share in our mission.

Ignatian Spirituality was a common thread I recognized in all my experiences at CJI. As an organization developed by the Jesuits of the Canada Province and rooted in Ignatian Spirituality and the Jesuit mission, CJI felt very familiar to me—very close to what I am living for. Their mission and vision reflect what we Jesuits promote through the four Universal Apostolic Preferences. The only difference is that they are lay collaborators who generously share in our mission.

At CJI, I truly felt an atmosphere of “Friendship in the Lord.” Every member of the team interacted like family, and when I arrived, this family welcomed me and gave me opportunities to learn, to serve, and to participate in their mission. Through a variety of tasks, I met many people and witnessed the team’s dedication. I realized that they are not only carrying out the mission—they are living it with devotion. “The world is our home" — and every Jesuit has the responsibility to contribute to this home with all his heart and devotion.

During my farewell, I shared that I would like to call CJI a “community” because it is not only a place of professional organization, but also a place that shares faith, Catholic Social Teaching, and Ignatian Spirituality.

Thank you for eight fantastic weeks filled with many meaningful memories. I hope that everything I learned through CJI’s mission will continue to inspire me and serve as a strong foundation for my future vocation.

Writer: Little Stream

Photos: CJI Fanpage