Meet Ignatius of Loyola, the Founder of the Jesuits
A Basque Soldier Turned Catholic Saint
Ignatius of Loyola's Life and Legacy
WEB Ignatius of Loyola (1491-1556) was a Basque soldier who underwent a profound spiritual transformation after being injured in battle. He dedicated his life to serving God and founded the Society of Jesus, or the Jesuits, one of the most influential religious orders in Catholic history.
Ignatius' Early Life and Military Career
Ignatius was born into a noble family in Loyola, Basque Country, Spain. He pursued a military career, serving in the army during the Franco-Spanish War. However, a serious injury at the Battle of Pamplona in 1521 left him bedridden for months.
Mystical Experiences and Conversion
During his convalescence, Ignatius began reading spiritual books. He experienced a series of mystical visions that changed the course of his life. He abandoned his military career and embarked on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, where he intended to dedicate his life to prayer and service.
Founding the Society of Jesus
While in Paris, Ignatius met with other like-minded students, including Francis Xavier and Peter Faber. Together, they resolved to form a religious order devoted to poverty, chastity, and obedience. In 1540, Pope Paul III approved the Society of Jesus, which quickly became one of the most important forces in the Counter-Reformation.
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