July IPA Update

Dear IPA Justice Contacts,

I’m reaching out with some important and exciting updates from the IPA Core Team — moments of heartfelt gratitude and joyful welcome as our journey continues.

In May, we said goodbye (with full hearts!) to Sister Lancia Rodrigues, who completed her time with IPA after many years of devoted service. As our Spirituality and Charism Animator, Sister Lancia has been a radiant presence — holding sacred space for us through prayer, reflection, ritual, and deep spiritual grounding. Her wisdom, gentleness, and fierce commitment to the Presentation mission have been a blessing to the entire network.

She has now moved into a new ministry, and although we will miss her dearly, we’re so grateful for all she has offered IPA — especially the way she helped us live our justice work as a spiritual calling. We hold her in our prayers and send her every blessing in this next chapter. While her formal role has ended, the work of nurturing IPA’s spirituality and charism remains central to who we are. This vital thread will continue to be woven into all that we do.

We’re also delighted to introduce two exciting staff updates:

Christopher Zefting

Christopher has stepped into a new role on our UN team as Policy Engagement Coordinator. In this position, he works closely with our UN Representative Despoina to ensure that IPA’s voice — grounded in the Presentation charism — is present in key international human rights processes. From drafting UPR and Treaty Body submissions at the UN, to tracking our impact, Christopher is helping shape the future of IPA’s UN Programme. We’re thrilled to see his work expanding and deepening in this way.

Bandiswa Mlangeni

Please join us in warmly welcoming Bandiswa Mlangeni, our new Justice Network Coordinator! Bandiswa plays a key role in energising, equipping, and walking alongside our global network of justice contacts — that means you! Through one-on-one connection, creative training, and "Monthly Meets", Bandiswa is here to build a strong, passionate community of justice advocates. Her work also brings in elements of spiritual grounding and faith-rooted inspiration, helping us stay connected to the heart of our mission. We’re so excited for you to meet her in upcoming sessions!

As always, I am just a short email or whatsapp message away, so please reach out if you have any questions:) Thank you for being part of this evolving story of justice, faith, and global solidarity. We’re deeply grateful for each of you — and so hopeful about all that lies ahead!

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Blessings,

Jess 

You are being invited to register for RENATE’s upcoming online event on Wednesday, 30th July, to mark the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.

During this special gathering, we will launch the final two RENATE films:

• Against the Shadows (Albania)

• Fragile Life (Ukraine)

We will come together in community for prayer, reflection, and powerful storytelling as we continue to shine a light on the realities of human trafficking and the work being done to end it across the RENATE network.

Time: 4:00 p.m. (British Summer Time) / 5:00 p.m. (Central European Time)

To ensure privacy and protection, registration is required in order to receive the Zoom link.

You can register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ulAG8ELcQjyWjkAZiNC1XA

We deeply encourage your presence and participation in this important moment of solidarity, prayer, and hope.