“You have come from various areas of our world where the Order is present. You are here representing different cultures, different languages, different situations to dialogue about this essential element of our vocation as Friars Minor the commitment to peace, justice and the integrity of creation.” These were some of the words in the opening message of Fr. Ignacio Ceja, OFM, Vicar General, to the participants of the International Council for Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) gathered in the city of Assisi from the 1st to 7th March, 2025.
The JPIC General Office and its Commitment to Social Justice and Integral Ecology
During the first days, the reports of the JPIC work of the last three years were presented. These presentations highlighted the noble work of many Franciscans around the world, addressing primarily ecological conversion, climate justice and integral ecology. In addition, attention to migrants and refugees was emphasized, as well as the commitment to non-violence and peacebuilding.
The reports also highlighted the growth of social conflicts in Asia, Africa and Latin America, along with wars in Europe and the Middle East. These scenarios have led to a significant increase in the number of migrants and refugees, a situation that has been a central focus of the Order’s work in favour of human rights and the dignity of displaced persons.
An encounter with the spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi
On the third day, participants visited the friary of San Damiano, the place where St. Francis composed the Canticle of the Creatures in 1225. Guided by Br Sisto Russo, OFM, they visited every corner that marked the life of St. Clare and St. Francis of Assisi. In this framework of profound spirituality, the Eucharist was celebrated presided over by Fr. Cesare Vaiani, General Definitor, in the same chapel that Francis rebuilt with his own hands and in which he experienced the call of the Crucifix of San Damiano.
Reflection on the Canticle of the Creatures and the communication of the Franciscan mission
A day earlier, Fr. William Short, OFM, offered a reflection entitled The Canticle of the Creatures and Integral Ecology, where he delved into the connection between Franciscan spirituality and environmental sustainability.
For his part, Gabriel López, founder of Católicos en Red, highlighted the importance of digital communication in evangelization and in the promotion of social and ecological causes. He underlined how storytelling can be a powerful tool to transmit the impact of our actions in favor of justice and peace.
The International JPIC Council: A space for dialogue and commitment
The International JPIC Council is made up of the animator of each of the thirteen Franciscan Conferences and the five members of the JPIC Animation Committee. This council functions as an advisory group, constituted by the General Definitory, with the purpose of supporting the JPIC Office, the Franciscan Conferences and the Order in the task of formation, awareness, animation and commitment in the field of social justice, peace and care for creation (Art. 1 of the JPIC Particular Statutes).
