This week, a delegation of students from St. John's College Junior College University (SJCJC-U) has been in El Salvador, participating in a meaningful pilgrimage and cultural immersion experience with our sister Jesuit institution, Universidad Centroamericana (UCA). This trip marks a significant occasion, as Jesuit students from across Central America have gathered to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the tragic deaths of the six Jesuits, their housemaid, and her child, who were killed in 1989 at the UCA during El Salvador's civil conflict.
The pilgrimage and cultural exchange have provided the students with a deep and moving experience, connecting them with the rich history and spirit of solidarity that defines the Jesuit community. Among the key activities, the delegation visited the tomb and residence of St. Oscar Romero, the Archbishop of San Salvador, whose martyrdom in 1980 was a defining moment in the country’s history. They also took time to learn about the UCA Jesuit martyrs, whose sacrifice in 1989 remains a powerful symbol of courage and commitment to justice in the face of violence.
The students have also explored historical sites in the region, deepening their understanding of El Salvador's complex history and the struggles for peace and justice that have shaped its modern identity. These visits are not only educational but also personal, as they invite reflection on the meaning of martyrdom, human rights, and the ongoing fight for justice in Central America.
A key highlight of the trip has been the fellowship and cultural exchange with UCA students and peers from across the region. These opportunities for connection have allowed the SJCJC-U students to engage in meaningful dialogue, share experiences, and strengthen bonds of solidarity with fellow young people committed to the values of the Jesuit tradition.
The group also participated in a Mass and procession held in honor of the Jesuit martyrs, a deeply spiritual moment that united the delegation with the broader Jesuit community in a shared remembrance of those who gave their lives for justice and peace. This act of remembrance was not just about honoring the past, but also about renewing a commitment to the values that the martyrs stood for—compassion, justice, and service to the marginalized.
Commentaires