The 15th anniversary of the JRS and Society of Jesus’ commitment

to Afghanistan is an opportunity to give thanks for the gift of accompaniment, service and advocacy. 

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Our work throughout Afghanistan, and especially our work with the Hazara community in Bamyan and surrounding areas, is inspirational and very much needed. The strong and clear focus on education is consistent with St Ignatius’ vision for the Society and Pedro Arrupe SJ’s vision for JRS.  Both would approve our engagement of the educational system there for the benefit and inclusion of all, especially internally displaced Afghan citizens.

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The most graced note of our work there is the dedication to the empowerment and participation of girls and women. My two visits to Afghanistan were filled with appreciation for the staff and their efforts to engage women and girls in the educational system and possibilities beyond. This is a lasting contribution.

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Let me also add a note about the inspiring work of our team in Kabul. Individuals from all over the world and from different communities in Afghanistan working together to accompany and serve—this is a model worth repeating all over the world!

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Sincere thanks to all who have been part of our teams there over these 15 years: long-term volunteers like Silvia Kaeppeli; Jesuits who have given many years to the project—Stan, Prem and Orville among them; the staff members who are still with us and those who have gone on to other forms of service and engagement in Afghanistan.

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It is a time to remember and celebrate! May the Holy One continue to bless the people of Afghanistan and the commitment of JRS there.