St. Ignatius of Layola

 

Saint Ignatius of Loyola (1491-1556) was a Spanish Catholic priest and theologian who founded the Society of Jesus (Jesuits). 

Early Life:

Ignatius was born Íñigo López de Loyola in the Loyola Castle, Azpeitia, Spain, to a noble family. He was the youngest of 13 children. His mother died when he was young, and his father later remarried.

Soldier and Injury:

Ignatius became a soldier at a young age and fought in the Italian Wars. In 1521, during the siege of Pamplona, he was severely injured in the leg by a cannonball. During his long recovery, he read spiritual books, including the lives of saints and the Bible, which led to a deep conversion experience.

Spiritual Journey:

After his recovery, Ignatius traveled to Jerusalem, hoping to live a life of penance and prayer. However, he was forced to return to Spain due to the Ottoman wars. He then began studying theology in Barcelona and later in Paris, where he met his future companions, including Francis Xavier and Peter Faber.

Founding of the Jesuits:

In 1534, Ignatius and his companions took vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, marking the founding of the Society of Jesus. The Jesuits were approved by Pope Paul III in 1540. Ignatius was elected the first Superior General of the Jesuits and established the order's constitutions.

Ministry and Later Life:

Ignatius dedicated his life to spiritual direction, writing, and governance of the Jesuits. He wrote the Spiritual Exercises, a classic work on prayer and discernment. He also founded several colleges and sent missionaries worldwide.

Death and Legacy:

Ignatius died on July 31, 1556, in Rome. He was canonized a saint in 1622 by Pope Gregory XV. His feast day is July 31. Saint Ignatius of Loyola is remembered for his courage, spiritual leadership, and dedication to God's service. The Jesuits continue to be a prominent religious order globally, known for their educational institutions, missionary work, and social justice advocacy.