Saint Ignatius
Saint Ignatius
================
Full Name and Common Aliases
--------------------------------
Ignatius of Loyola was born Inigo López de Oñaz y Loyola in 1491. He is commonly known as Saint Ignatius, the founder of the Jesuits.
Birth and Death Dates
-------------------------
Born: 1491, Loyola, Kingdom of Navarre (now Basque Country, Spain)
Died: July 31, 1556, Rome, Papal States (now Italy)
Nationality and Profession(s)
---------------------------------
Ignatius was a Spanish Catholic priest and theologian. He is best known for founding the Society of Jesus, also known as the Jesuits.
Early Life and Background
------------------------------
As the youngest child in a noble family, Ignatius received a traditional education in chivalry and warfare. However, during his early twenties, he was severely injured in battle while defending the town of Pamplona from French forces. During his recovery, he experienced a profound spiritual conversion that led him to abandon his worldly ambitions and pursue a life of spirituality.
Major Accomplishments
---------------------------
Ignatius's most significant accomplishment is the founding of the Jesuits, which aimed to reform the Catholic Church by emphasizing education, missionary work, and social justice. He traveled extensively throughout Europe, gathering followers who shared his vision for the Society of Jesus.
Under Ignatius's leadership, the Jesuits established numerous schools, universities, and missions around the world. His emphasis on education and critical thinking led to significant advancements in various fields, including science, philosophy, and theology.
Notable Works or Actions
------------------------------
Some notable works associated with Saint Ignatius include:
The Spiritual Exercises: a spiritual guide for individuals seeking to deepen their relationship with God.
Constitutions of the Society of Jesus: the foundational document outlining the principles and structure of the Jesuits.
* Ignatius's efforts in promoting education, particularly among the poor and marginalized.
Impact and Legacy
-------------------------
Ignatius's impact on Christianity is immense. His vision for a reformed Church has shaped Catholicism and influenced many other Christian denominations. The Jesuits continue to be a significant force in education, missionary work, and social justice around the world.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
-----------------------------------------------
Ignatius's quotes and writings are widely read due to their insight into spiritual growth and development. His emphasis on discernment, self-awareness, and service to others has inspired countless individuals to pursue a life of faith and purpose.
Quotes by Saint Ignatius
Among the many signs of a lively faith and hope we have in eternal life, one of the surest is not being overly sad at the death of those whom we dearly love in our Lord.
Concerning the harsh treatment of the body for our Lord's sake, I would say, avoid anything that would cause the shedding even of a drop of blood.
So with that will prompt and prepared to serve all those whom I perceive to be servants of my Lord, I will speak of three things with simplicity and love as if I were speaking to my own soul.
God our Lord would have us look to the Giver and love Him more than His gift, keeping Him always before our eyes, in our hearts, and in our thoughts.
It is one thing to be eloquent and charming in profane speech, and another when the one speaking as a religious.
We should not have a petty regard for God's gifts, though we may and should despise our own imperfections.
The safest and most suitable form of penance seems to be that which causes pain in the flesh but does not penetrate to the bones, that is, which causes suffering but not sickness.
The principal end both of my father and of myself in the conquest of India... has been the propagation of the holy Catholic faith.
May it please Christ our Lord to grant us true humility and abnegation of will and judgment, so that we may deserve to begin to be His disciples.
Remember that the good angels do what they can to preserve men from sin and obtain God's honor. But they do not lose courage when men fail.