The Four Universal Apostolic Preferences
The Universal Apostolic Preferences (UAPs) provide a shared horizon of mission for the entire Society of Jesus. They are the fruit of a long and prayerful process of communal discernment involving Jesuits across the world and in dialogue with our mission partners. For JPS, the Universal Apostolic Preferences serve as a guiding compass, helping us prioritise, plan, and carry out our ministries in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana in fidelity to the wider mission of the Society of Jesus.
The Four Universal Apostolic Preferences
Showing the Way to God
Through the Spiritual Exercises and Discernment
We commit ourselves to helping people discover God’s presence and action in their lives. Through the Spiritual Exercises, discernment, and spiritual accompaniment, we seek to open pathways for deeper faith, interior freedom, and a life oriented toward service. This preference invites both Jesuits and collaborators to cultivate a discerning spirit that listens attentively to God and responds generously to the needs of the world.
Walking with the Excluded
Walking with the Poor, the Outcasts of the World, Those Whose Dignity Has Been Violated, in a Mission of Reconciliation and Justice
We walk alongside those who are marginalized, excluded, and forgotten—standing with the poor, the oppressed, and those whose dignity has been wounded. This preference calls us to active solidarity, advocacy, and accompaniment in the pursuit of justice and reconciliation. At JPS, this commitment is expressed through education, social action, healthcare, tribal and Dalit welfare, women’s empowerment, and grassroots community engagement.
Journeying with Youth
Accompanying Young People in the Creation of a Hope-Filled Future
Young people are central to the future of society and the Church. We commit ourselves to journeying with youth, listening to their hopes and struggles, and supporting them in becoming responsible, faith-filled, and socially conscious leaders. Through education, leadership formation, vocational guidance, and youth movements, JPS accompanies young people as they shape a future rooted in hope, justice, and service.
Caring for Our Common Home
Collaborating, with Gospel Depth, for the Protection and Renewal of God’s Creation
Recognising the ecological crisis as both a social and spiritual challenge, we commit ourselves to caring for our common home. This preference calls us to ecological responsibility, sustainable living, and advocacy for environmental justice, especially for communities most affected by climate change. JPS integrates ecological consciousness into education, social initiatives, and community practices, fostering care for creation as an essential dimension of faith.
