The idea of creating community centres in Syria grew out of the long-standing commitment of the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) in the country since 2008. In 2016, faced with the humanitarian emergency and the need to think beyond the immediate, the Jesuits in Syria sought to go further. They understood that humanitarian aid, although vital, was not enough to rebuild the future of a torn nation. The years of war had not only devastated the infrastructure, but they had also broken social ties, replacing trust with mistrust and brotherhood with division.

Long before the current conflict, the ruling regime had established an oppressive system of control, fuelled by omnipresent security services. This repressive machine plunged society into a climate of fear, where self-censorship became second nature. Syrians were forced to distrust each other, seeing a potential threat in every difference. After fifteen years of war, the psychological and ideological barriers became insurmountable, making any form of dialogue or reconciliation almost impossible.

It is in this context that we have chosen to place our hope in Syrian youth. Aware that the future of the country rests on their shoulders, we have focused our efforts on them. The objective is to replant hope, restore confidence in oneself and in others, and recreate a sense of belonging to a community and a nation. The community centres in Damascus, Homs and Aleppo are much more than just places of activity: they are spaces where the ice of mistrust is broken, where people learn to see in others not an enemy, but a brother or sister who shares the same sufferings and aspires to the same dignity.

Centres at the service of reconciliation

Each of these centres offers a variety of activities – artistic, cultural, spiritual and educational – tailored to the specific needs of their community. But beyond their diversity, they share a common mission: to pave the way for lasting reconciliation by breaking down ideological barriers and promoting dialogue between different social groups.

The Alberto House in Jaramana has established itself as a haven of creativity, offering art workshops, exhibitions and cultural training. Here, art becomes a universal language, capable of transcending divisions and expressing the inexpressible. The Homs House, focused on pastoral care and catechesis, is also a place for cultural encounters. It invites young people to overcome denominational divisions and come together around common values. The Aleppo House, for its part, specializes in youth training, with a study library (Study Zone) and educational programs. It has become a space where young people can train, reflect and prepare for the future.

A step forward for the Syria of tomorrow

Today, with the fall of the regime, a new page is opening for Syria. And Jesuits have a more urgent mission than ever: to accompany this transition by strengthening the role of our community centres. In this regard, these spaces can play a key role in the reconstruction of the country, by offering young people the necessary tools to become committed and responsible actors.

Our art workshops can now convey powerful messages, inviting deep reflection on the challenges facing society. Pastoral care can help young people transcend religious divisions to demand inclusive and supportive citizenship. Formation can become a tool for dialogue and reconciliation, where young people learn to build a common future together.

With the support of a network of dynamic and determined young people, the possibility of attaining these goals becomes more possible. Our mission is clear: to awaken consciences, stimulate critical and creative thinking, and revive the moral and ethical values that are the foundations of a just and fraternal society.

Our vision: the charter of the MAGIS network

In February 2024, the Jesuits of Syria drew up a charter that embodies their vision and their commitment to these community centres. For us, these places are much more than just spaces for activities: they are places of mission and hope, where the future of Syria is being built.

Because we believe in the goodness of man,
in his creator and creative freedom,
Because we believe that every human being
deserves to find his place in society,
Because we believe that the dignity of an individual
is not separable from that of others,
Because we believe that our world needs bridges,
trust and dialogue,
Because we believe that we are together
responsible for the Earth, “our common home”,
Because, despite everything, we believe that hope is possible.

We dream of spaces in which everyone can go further, with more depth, so that, together, we can find the courage to be actors in our lives and the hope to build our society.

How?

In the pursuit to enrich lives across social, artistic, academic, and spiritual domains, we envision a comprehensive approach centred on training, personal accompaniment, and fostering opportunities for communal sharing. The mission is inclusive, aimed especially at the vibrant energy of young people as we seek to walk alongside them, embracing their challenges as catalysts for growth and renewal.

At the heart of this endeavour lies core values of hospitality and inclusivity, promoting freedom of expression and fostering creativity in all its forms. The centres advocate courage in the face of adversity, openness to new ideas, and a dedication to simplicity and the appreciation of beauty. Through collaborative efforts, the centres aspire to reignite the spirit of Syria, restoring hope and dignity to its people.