October 20, 2023
Nate Radomski

Directors from the Xavier Network (XN)–the network of Jesuit mission offices and development NGOs from Europe, Australia, and North America–met in Zurich from October 18-20 for one of its two annual meetings. Among the topics discussed were an overview of the network’s emergency and safeguarding protocols, individual organization updates, and a reflection on strategic partnerships. 

In addition to the leaders of each member organization, the XN was joined by Jesuit Conference of European Provincials (JCEP) social delegate Filipe Martins, SJ, and, for the first time, JCEP President Dalibor Renić, SJ.

One of the most interesting moments of the meeting was the session on strategic partnerships with Jesuit organizations and networks in the Global South. Directors shared reflections on current XN partnerships, with the objective of strengthening a common vision moving forward. The conversation also allowed for a recognition of the significant progress made by the network over the last 10 years, in no small part due to the talent and work undertaken by the Projects Working Group.

Klaus Väthröder, S.J. former Coordinator of the Xavier Network with Jenny Cafiso who will take on the roll.

The meeting also marked a significant transition as Klaus Väthröder, SJ–former director of Jesuitenmission Germany–ended his tenure as coordinator of the network and Jenny Cafiso–executive director of Canadian Jesuits International–was elected as the new XN coordinator. Members of the network celebrated and thanked Väthröder for his years of service and leadership to the network. 

It was also an opportunity to renew the leadership of the Executive Committee. Martín Iriberri, SJ (ALBOAN-Entreculturas) and Katrin Morales (Jesuitenmission Austria) were elected as new members to the Executive Committee, joining existing members Cafiso and Paul Chitnis (Jesuit Missions UK).

The three days of meetings and working sessions served as an important space to continue the work of the network’s common mission. The many years of experience of the XN are also evident in the deep relationships and friendships among member organizations, which translates into a truly remarkable atmosphere of collaboration and shared mission. 

The next Directors Meeting will take place in Dublin, Ireland on March 13-15.