Called to the frontiers
On May 15, 2026, Fr. Arturo Sosa, the Superior General of the Society of Jesus, began his visit to Poland by celebrating a Mass in Krakow, presided over by Cardinal Grzegorz Ryś. Read below our summary of the account of his visit based on an article by our colleague and fellow communications officer in Poland, Fr Wojciech Żmudziński SJ.
Christ’s Cross Transforming Human Hearts
This visit by Fr Sosa marked the opening of an international academic conference organised by the Jesuit Ignatianum University, titled ‘Continuities and Transformations: On the Centennial of the Reorganisation of the Society of Jesus in the Commonwealth of Poland.’ The conference featured academic sessions and panel discussions, attracting researchers from Poland and international participants, including those from Germany and Lithuania.
The following day in Warsaw, Fr. Sosa delivered the homily to a packed church during the Solemn Memorial Mass of St. Andrew Bobola (1591-1697), a Jesuit priest and martyr. This day was particularly noteworthy, as it marked the 100th anniversary of the Greater Poland and Mazovia Province of the Society of Jesus.
In his homily, Fr. Sosa posed a critical question: “What is God calling us to do today?” He pointed to the increasing polarization and divisions in society, which manifest in various forms, including wars of words and information. He noted that these conflicts often lead to suffering among the most vulnerable populations.
He emphasised that the mission of the Jesuits today revolves around reconciliation, emphasising that peace cannot be achieved through violence or manipulation but rather through the cross of Christ. The world often mistakenly equates power with tanks and media, he said, adding, however, that history shows true peace comes from love and selfless sacrifice.
Fr. Sosa drew a parallel between the challenges faced by modern society and the life of St. Andrew Bobola SJ » who remained with his community during times of conflict, serving as a shepherd despite the risks to his life. He underscored Bobola’s commitment to serving others, even in adversity, and his ability to maintain a spirit of love and forgiveness toward his persecutors who are said to have tortured him to death.
In closing, Fr. Sosa called upon St. Andrew Bobola as an example and challenge for Jesuits and all individuals to discern how to serve faithfully in a world fraught with violence and division. He urged them to contribute to “transforming hearts through the wisdom of the cross,” which he described as the “sacrifice of love, the gift of self for others, which has an incredible power to transform human hearts.”
Following the Mass, Father Provincial Zbigniew Leczkowski expressed gratitude to those who organized the celebration, while Archbishop Galbas reiterated the need for reconciliation and understanding within Polish society, invoking the legacy of St. Andrew Bobola as a guiding light. The day concluded with prayers before Bobola’s relics and a communal meal, fostering a sense of unity among those present.
Fr. Sosa actively participated in various events, including the opening of the Jubilee Eco-Alley, which commemorated the Province’s centennial. The Jubilee alley of shrubs planted in front of the Jesuit College in Warsaw is intended to remind the Jesuits of one of the four mission preferences of the Society of Jesus in today’s world – care for our common home.
He also met with Polish Jesuits and other collaborators of the Society’s mission. Speaking with his fellow Jesuits, he addressed questions about religious formation, outreach to the peripheries, and the implications of artificial intelligence for their mission. He emphasised that working on the frontiers is intrinsic to Jesuit identity, requiring a commitment that involves taking risks.
Lay colleagues shared their experiences related to the Jesuit Refugee Service, parish work, and university ministry. Their testimonies reflected a deep commitment to the Jesuit mission.
Unveiling a plaque in honour of Fr. Adam Sztark SJ, a candidate for beatification and recognised as Righteous Among the Nations, Fr. Sosa expressed admiration for his courageous actions and highlighted the many Poles who risked their lives to save others during difficult times.
Fr. Sosa’s visit underscored not only the historical significance of the Society of Jesus in Poland but also the pressing need for a commitment to reconciliation and service in today’s world.
“What is God calling us to do today?” A question posed by Jesuit Fr General Arturo Sosa SJ on his recent visit to Poland.
