Loyola hosts AJCU Faith, Justice & Reconciliation Assembly 2024

Loyola University Chicago recently hosted the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities (AJCU) Faith, Justice & Reconciliation Assembly: Creation of a Hope-filled Future from July 16-19, 2024. This significant event brought together Jesuit institutions from across the country to address pressing issues in faith, justice, and reconciliation, showcasing Loyola’s leadership and commitment to these values. 

This assembly is a continuation of a longstanding tradition rooted in the transformative decree of the Society of Jesus in 1975, known as Decree Four of the 32nd General Congregation. This decree marked a turning point, emphasizing the inextricable link between faith and justice as a core identity of Jesuit work. Inspired by the “Men for Others” speech by the late Jesuit Superior General Rev. Pedro Arrupe, S.J., in 1973, this decree sparked significant renewal within the Society of Jesus and its ministries. 

The AJCU Assembly’s theme, “Creation of a Hope-filled Future,” drew inspiration from the Universal Apostolic Preferences of the Society of Jesus, focusing on faith, justice, and reconciliation. This gathering featured an array of distinguished plenary speakers, presentations, and workshops that explored these critical areas. In his opening remarks, Loyola President Mark C. Reed highlighted the importance of learning from the different experiences of fellow Jesuit institutions. 

A hallmark of this year’s assembly was the introduction of six Commissions, composed of faculty and staff from the AJCU network. These teams have been collaborating since Spring 2023 to tackle major issues affecting Jesuit institutions, and they presented their work during the event. The Commissions facilitated participant engagement and dialogue, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in advancing faith, justice, and reconciliation.