Rowing Into the Deep

Presented by Dr. Peter Bisson, S.J. (Provincial Superior of the Jesuits in English Canada)

In the 476 years since its founding, the Society of Jesus has convened only 35 general congregations. On October 2, 2016, General Congregation 36 convened in Rome. A general congregation is the supreme governing body of the Society of Jesus. 200 plus delegates from around the world attended the congregation. All nine Jesuit provincials from Canada and the U.S attended. Fr. Peter Bisson will describe the process, topics, and decisions made that will guide the Jesuits and the Church in the coming years.
The logo for GC 36 was inspired by Pope Francis’ message to the Jesuits on the 200th anniversary of the restoration of the Society of Jesus. The pope urged Jesuits to discern in difficult times; to be receptive of and obedient to the will of God; and to row with him in the service of the church according to the call of Jesus to his disciples: “Put out into the deep.”
On the GC36 logo, the IHS represents the Society’s boat in the church, and the waves represent the sea where Jesuits are invited to enter and row out into, toward frontiers. The cross represents the sail where the Spirit blows, helping the Society row. The flame above the cross represents “a fire that kindles other fires,” a link to the Jesuit charism.

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