The Definition of Jesuits

Jesuits run 28 colleges and universities.

The Jesuits are a community of Catholic priests and brothers founded in 1540 by St. Ignatius of Loyola. The word "Jesuit" stems from a previously negative connotation meaning "one who used too frequently or appropriated the name of Jesus." Its founder never used the term, but later Jesuits adopted the word to reclaim it with positive meaning.

Order History

St. Ignatius of Loyola was born in Spain to a nobleman in the late 15th century during a time of turmoil and social change marking the beginning of humanism. Ignatius was taken prisoner by the French defending a fortress in Pamplona where he shattered his leg. Ignatius spent his recovery time reading religious books, praying and doing works of charity. He took on students in France, directing them in prayer, meditation and spiritual exercises. The students continued to study and were ordained as Catholic priests in Venice. In 1540, Pope Paul III approved the Society of Jesus. Ignatius served as General Superior until his death in 1556.

Jesuit Mission

The Jesuits seek to serve the church throughout the world by teaching others, particularly spiritual exercises Ignatius himself completed. Jesuits seek to marry service of faith with promoting justice, with particular emphasis on traveling the world on their mission. Jesuits' missionary goals include promoting social justice and inter-religious dialogue as well as providing retreats based on St. Ignatius' fundamental work.

Works

The Society of Jesus specializes in education, sponsoring more than 70 high schools and middle schools, 28 colleges and universities and a number of parishes, retreat centers and ministries. International social justice-related works include the Jesuits AIDS Network in Africa to promote more just U.S. polices in Africa and help with HIV/AIDS issues, a Jesuit refugee service in South Asia, the Jesuit Migration Service in Latin America and the Catholic European Study and Information Center that coordinates advocacy work and efforts.

Becoming a Jesuit

The Jesuit order provides an in-depth outline for becoming an order member, starting with a guideline on discerning whether God calls the person to become a Jesuit including information on interest, inquiry, understanding the experience, moving toward the decision, applying and entering as a novice. Novices learn about vows of poverty, chastity and obedience and living in a community setting. Scholars and brothers spend three years on philosophy and theological studies, then another three that lead to ordination. After several years of studies and ministry works, the member takes his final vows.

References

• National Jesuit Brothers Committee: Who are the Jesuits?
• New Advent Catholic Encyclopedia: The Society of Jesus
• The Society of Jesus in the United States: One Mission, Many Ministries
• The Society of Jesus in the United States: Becoming a Jesuit
• The Society of Jesus in the United States: International Works

Resources

• The Institute of Jesuit Sources
• Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities