Honoring the Vision of Fr. Pedro Arrupe, S.J. | JRS Resource Guide
04 November 2025|Spiritual Reflection and Resources
Remembering the Founding Spirit of Jesuit Refugee Service
Each year on November 14, the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) community reflects on the legacy of Fr. Pedro Arrupe, S.J., whose leadership and compassion gave birth to a global mission of hope and accompaniment for refugees and forcibly displaced people.
A Turning Point in Jesuit History
In 1979, as news spread of Vietnamese families escaping by sea, Fr. Pedro Arrupe — then Superior General of the Society of Jesus — recognized a humanitarian crisis that called for immediate action. Moved by their suffering, he urged Jesuits worldwide to respond in faith and solidarity. His message was clear: providing food and shelter alone was not enough.
The following year, in 1980, this conviction led to the creation of Jesuit Refugee Service — an organization dedicated to serving refugees, asylum seekers, and other displaced people, grounded in the Jesuit tradition of faith that does justice.
“Being With Rather Than Doing For”
Fr. Arrupe’s vision redefined what humanitarian service could be. He called for a model rooted in accompaniment — a commitment to walk with people, not simply to provide for them. He saw in every refugee the face of Christ and believed that education, spiritual support, and presence were as essential as physical aid.
That belief continues to shape the way JRS serves today: through education, livelihoods training, pastoral care, and advocacy that affirms the dignity and agency of every person forced from home.
From Vision to Global Mission
What began as a small Jesuit initiative to support refugees in Southeast Asia has grown into a global network in more than 55 countries, reaching millions each year. JRS remains faithful to Arrupe’s conviction that faith must express itself in action, and that reconciliation and justice are at the heart of service.
Continuing the Legacy
Fr. Arrupe’s life reminds us that compassion and leadership can transform tragedy into mission. His legacy challenges us to respond to the displacement crises of our time with courage, empathy, and imagination — to see service not as charity, but as solidarity.
Download the Reflection Resource
To help communities, parishes, and classrooms engage with this legacy, JRS has created a Reflection Resource you can download and share.
Inside, you’ll find:
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A concise history of Fr. Arrupe and the founding of JRS
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Reflection and discussion prompts
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Prayers, readings, and short background texts
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Shareable graphics and social-media assets
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Practical ideas for community action and solidarity
Use this resource to lead a conversation, host a prayer service, or inspire others to reflect on the enduring vision that continues to guide JRS today.
Pray in Solidarity
Recognize JRS Day by joining us in prayer. Please use this resource Praying with the Mission of Jesuit Refugee Service to guide your community in prayer and reflection.
Share the Story
Get Social!
Join us in celebrating our mission by sharing how your community stands with immigrants and refugees. Post photos, reflections, or events that show your support—and tag us so we can amplify your message!
Support the Mission
Learn more about how JRS continues to support forcibly displaced people despite U.S. foreign aid cuts. Consider supporting our mission with a gift today.
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