The six members of the Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) Animation Committee met virtually from the 9th -11th December, 2025, to evaluate the work carried out during the year, outline the agenda for 2026, and strengthen collaboration within the global Franciscan network.
Participants included Fr. Daniel Rodríguez Blanco OFM, Fr. Jean Eric Mutabazi OFM, Fr. Tomás Insua, Fr. Taucen Girsang OFM, Sr. Mary Sebastian LSSJ, and Fr. Cordian Szwarc OFM.
The following individuals participated in the meeting: Fr. Daniel Rodríguez Blanco OFM, Fr. Jean Eric Mutabazi OFM, Fr. Tomás Insua, Fr. Taucen Girsang OFM, Sr. Mary Sebastian LSSJ, and Fr. Cordian Szwarc OFM. The main objective of the meeting was to review the activities carried out by the JPIC General Office during 2025, define strategic priorities for 2026, strengthen regional Franciscan networks, and discuss collaboration with partner organizations. Key topics were also addressed, such as the 2026 International JPIC Course, the two planned continental meetings, and a structural proposal regarding the place of JPIC within the Order.
The meeting began on Tuesday the 9th December, with a prayer led by Fr. Taucen Girsang OFM, followed by the presentation of the new Committee member, Fr. Cordian Szwarc OFM. During the day, participants reviewed the activities of the JPIC General Office in 2025, reflecting on the progress made and areas for improvement. The discussion on the 2026 agenda helped identify priorities and strategic lines of action. Subsequently, Tomás Insua shared updates related to the Feast of Creation, highlighting the perspectives and plans for the coming year.
On Wednesday, the 10th December, following the opening prayer led by Tomás, the session focused on the Franciscan Networks of the Americas, the Mediterranean, Asia, and Africa. Each region presented its main initiatives, challenges, and opportunities. The Committee then discussed collaboration with various partner organizations, including Franciscans International, the Laudato Si’ Movement, Pax Christi International, and Roman VI, emphasizing the importance of coordination and joint work.
The final day, Thursday the 11th December, began with a prayer led by Fr. Jean Eric Mutabazi OFM. During this session, the Committee reviewed the initial proposal for the 2026 International JPIC Course and received updated information on the continental meetings in Asia and Africa. A central point of discussion was the proposal to transform the current JPIC General Office into a General Secretariat, which sparked an in-depth exchange on its structure, functions, and mission within the Order.
The meeting concluded with an open session dedicated to other matters, reaffirming the shared commitment to justice, peace, and care for creation, inspired by Franciscan spirituality.
