The diverse experiences and initiatives of and by Jesuit colleges from all over Europe were shared at the 36th edition of the annual Convegno, which St Aloysius’ College, Birkirkara, hosted for the third time.

This year’s event, which was themed ‘The Jesuits and their ministry to young people’, was attended by 50 students from Hungary, Lithuania, Spain, Albania, Kosovo, Italy, Poland and Ireland. Each delegation shared presentations about the rich history of accompaniment and formation offered by their respective Jesuit colleges through innovative and diverse projects and programmes for young people. Through these programmes, students are given the opportunity to discover more about themselves in a dynamic context of voluntary service, spiritual retreats and social activities.

The experience enabled the participants to learn about the lives of young people from other countries.

 The Convegno was a study and a celebration of how, through their college activities, students have found a place of welcome, belonging and encouragement, spurring them to become contemplatives in action in schools, universities, parishes, spiritual centres and voluntary organisations, working collaboratively with others to effect change for the poor and marginalised.

During the Convegno the participants also took part in workshops on the four areas of service in which Jesuits worldwide will give preference during the forthcoming decade: Journeying with youth; Working with the excluded; Caring for our common home; and Promoting discernment and the spiritual exercises.

The students were hosted by families of St Aloysius College sixth formers, which enhanced the exchange of cultures. The event’s social and cultural programme also included visits to Mdina and Valletta and an evening of international performances.