Mission

The Ignatian Solidarity Network's purpose is to facilitate and enhance the effectiveness of existing social justice and advocacy efforts that are currently present in Jesuit affiliated high schools, universities and colleges, parishes, retreat centers, independent organizations and lay individuals across the nation. The network serves as a means to connect, strengthen, and broaden communication among these already existing groups in order to better understand what it means to live and act upon "a faith that does justice."

Moreover, the Ignatian Solidarity Network (ISN) offers a forum for energetic dialogue and discussion that builds stronger communal solidarity, both within various regional institutions and national apostolic sectors. The formation of this solidarity among universities and colleges, high schools, parishes and other Jesuit affiliated organizations promotes and strengthens justice-related advocacy work throughout the nation.

Today, in the changing face of the Catholic Church, Jesuit institutions have the opportunity to take a closer look at the mission and identity of what it truly means to be women and men for others. The Ignatian Solidarity Network will serve as a catalyst for this discussion and development, in order to further redefine what solidarity with the crucified peoples of this world truly looks like. In the 32nd General Congregation, Father Pedro Arrupe, SJ enthusiastically expressed, "the way to faith and the way to justice are inseparable ways. It is up this undivided road, this steep road, that the pilgrim Church must travel and toil. Faith and justice are undivided in the Gospel which teaches that faith makes its power felt through love. They cannot therefore be divided in our purpose, our action, our life."

ISN strives to bring difficult questions and challenges to the forefront of its member institutions, whether it is in the classroom, in a homily, or in a reflective prayer. Overall, the generated discussion and call to action will challenge and empower faith-based individuals and communities to unite and effectively create positive change.

Vision

We are a Network actively facilitating and promoting communication, education, and social justice awareness and action among Jesuit member institutions and individuals.

The ISN Logo

The logo authentically expresses the importance of solidarity and unity among the Ignatian family and its affiliates. Further, the tent symbolizes the ever-welcoming "home" to all who continue to dialogue and to seek positive change as an extension of one's deeper desire and passion to more fully live a "faith that does justice."

The idea of the tent originated from Bob Holstein, a compassionate and devoted Companion to both the Society of Jesus and its lay members. His contagious desire to create a more just world was evident in both his faith and his actions.

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