Cenacle of Madrid, Church of the Blessed Sacrament

Between December 1 and 12, 2025, the General Council met in Madrid for two fundamental moments of its mission and congregational animation. This journey integrated the administrative work of the Ordinary General Council (OGC) with the spiritual depth of the annual spiritual exercises.

1. Ordinary General Council: Evaluation and Fraternity

From December 1 to 5, the Council gathered at the Madrid Cenacle (Iglesia del Santísimo Sacramento) for the final OGC of 2025. The harsh Madrid winter stood in contrast to the city illuminated for Christmas, the human warmth, and the welcoming atmosphere of the religious community.

Evaluation of the Biennium (2023–2025)

After two years of mission (November 2023 to December 2025), the Council conducted its first systematic evaluation of its animation and accompaniment efforts. Three main points were highlighted during this sharing:

• Collaboration: The profound sense of cooperation demonstrated by the Provincial Superiors.
• Proximity: The constant presence of the General Council and its efficiency in addressing the needs of the brothers.
• Hope: The challenge of overcoming "murmuring" in the face of difficulties, fostering a positive and hopeful attitude throughout the Congregation.

Additionally, the agenda included the evaluation of the Commissions' work, financial and administrative reports, and attending to the needs of various Conferences, Provinces, and Regions.

Community Life 

The hospitality of Fathers José Antonio and Allen, as well as the scholastics and senior religious, turned the community into a true home for the Council. Moments of fraternal joy were also shared at the Cenacle of Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament, with the welcome provided by Father Lino.

2. Spiritual Exercises: In the Light of the Rule of Life

Following the conclusion of the administrative work, the Council departed for Pamplona and subsequently for the city of Javier.

From December 7 to 11, the General Council held his annual retreat at the Jesuit House, located next to the historic Castle of Francis Xavier.

The spiritual itinerary focused on the Rule of Life (RL), specifically the first five numbers: Identity, Founder, Mission, Spirit, and Community.

Prayer shared through the Eucharist and our charism strengthened the synergy among the Council members, consolidating this first cycle of service as a living community that prays and projects its mission together.  

 Cenacle of Pamplona, Corpus Christi Parish

Looking to the Future: The Year of Chapters 

With the conclusion of this stage in Madrid and Javier, the General Council feels reinvigorated for the challenges ahead. The year 2026 begins as a period of Chapters, opening a cycle of renewal, novelty, and commitment for the entire Congregation.

May our Holy Founder, Saint Peter Julian Eymard, and Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament continue to help us better serve and proclaim the Eucharistic Jesus.

 Castle of the Family of St. Francis Xavier, place of his birth

Father Francisco Junior De Oliveira Marques, sss
General Consultor