Early Life
Where was Ignatius born?
Ignatius was born in the ancestral castle of the Loyolas in northern Spain, in a town called Azpeitia in the Basque province of Guipuzcoa
What inspired Ignatius to convert to Christianity?
During Ignatius' recovery, he spent all of his time reading books about the life of Christ and different saints. He was very moved by what he had read and how the saints lived their lives, inspiring him to live a similar life.
What did Ignatius leave at the altar of the Shrine of Our Lady of Montserrat?
He laid down his sword at the altar, a symbol of taking up his new religious life and journey and leaving behind his past life as a soldier.
Why did Ignatius decide to go back to school?
Ignatius had a calling for priesthood to help souls, but needed the educational requirements. He needed to be educated in order to properly preach.
What are The Spiritual Exercises?
The Spiritual Exercises are a compilation of Christian meditations, prayers, and contemplations meant to be used as a handbook. Ignatius implemented them into his own life as well as shared with others.
How did the doctors treating Ignatius in recovery feel about his future?
The doctors and surgeons all believed that Ignatius was going to die and had little hope for him.
How did the values of Ignatius change following his conversion?
He no longer cared for material things, social status, or fame. He valued a simple life that was devoted to God; he valued prayer, preaching, and helping other souls.
What lifestyle did Ignatius take up for his pilgrimage?
He took up the life of a poor beggar; he gave away his clothes and fine belongings, as he no longer had interest in these things with his new faith
Where did Ignatius study?
Ignatius began his studies in Barcelona before moving to Alcalá. In Alcalá, he was accused of heresy; when found innocent, he left to study in Salamanca. In Salamanca, he was imprisoned for heresy once again, and when he was released he was told that he could not preach until he finished his education. So, he finished his studies at the University of Paris.
What four vows do Jesuits profess?
Vow of poverty, chastity, obedience, and a special vow of obedience to the Pope.
What were Ingatius' values prior to his conversion?
He valued honor and military heroism, specifically having high social status and fame through doing heroic actions.
What is an example of a divine intervention that Ignatius experienced following his conversion?
A vision of the Virgin Mary and baby Jesus; white rays coming from the body of Jesus in church; Christ in the form of a white body while he was engaged in prayer; a moment of spiritual clarity while sitting by a river
Ignatius had a significant encounter with the devil while living as a beggar in Manresa. What was this encounter?
Ignatius had the vision of what appeared to be a serpent covered in what looked like eyes that shone. This serpent questioned Ignatius' ability to live this new life for God, tempting Ignatius to quit. This serpent was the devil challenging Ignatius' devotion to God. Overcoming this was significant in Ignatius' journey as it demonstrated his love for God.
Where was Ignatius ordained?
Ignatius was ordained in Venice alongside nine of his companions, allowing him to preach as a priest.
What are the Jesuit Constitutions?
The Jesuit Constitutions, adopted in 1533, were a consolidated and centralized organization of the order that outlined the values, goals, rules and methods; they stressed absolute self-denial and obedience to the Pope and the Church
Where did Ignatius spend his recovery after his injury?
He spent two weeks in Pamplona where the injury occurred in battle against the French before the French carried him back to his homeland to continue recovery.
How was Ignatius' conversion similar to the conversion of Saint Augustine?
Both experienced divine intervention moments that strengthened their faith in God.
What significant work did Ignatius begin writing in Manresa?
The Spiritual Exercises
Ignatius decided to go 1 year without saying mass. What significant event occurred during this year?
A vision called La Sorta occurred. While in church, Ignatius very clearly saw that God had placed him with His Son; this vision was so clear that Ignatius had no doubt in his soul that he had been placed with His Son. This was the peak moment of Ignatius' desire to serve God and was the promise of divine favor and protection for Ignatius.
Education, Retreats, Soldiers, and the Society of Jesus!
How was Ignatius injured in a military battle that had him on bed rest in recovery for almost one year?
In the battle of Pamplona against the French, a cannonball was shot and hit him in the leg, going through his leg and breaking the entire limb.
How was Ignatius' conversion different from the conversion of Saint Augustine?
St. Augustine's conversion was much longer than Ignatius' conversion; Augustine struggled to fully commit himself to God and let go of his other desires, whereas Ignatius rather quickly submitted himself to serving God.
What was the biggest spiritual moment throughout Ignatius' life?
While in Manresa, Ignatius sat by a river when many thoughts came to him; his eyes were opened to a deeper understanding of many things concerning his faith and other spiritual things; this moment greatly strengthened his faith in God
Who did Ignatius meet while studying at the University of Paris?
His roommates Francis Xavier and Peter Faber, who would go on to help Ignatius form the Society of Jesus!
What distinguishes Jesuits from Christians?
The vow that calls for obedience to the Pope is what makes Jesuits different, it calls for obedience to any mission that the Pope requires. This reflects a greater devotion to the Church as a whole.