Ignatius Of Loyola

About the Author

Ignatius of Loyola (1491–1556), born Íñigo López de Oñaz y Loyola in the Basque region of Spain, was a transformative figure in Christian spirituality and the founder of the Society of Jesus, or Jesuits. Initially a soldier and courtier seeking worldly glory, a severe injury in the Battle of Pamplona in 1521 led to a profound conversion during his convalescence, where he discerned a call to imitate Christ through rigorous self-examination and prayer. Crafting The Spiritual Exercises from his experiences at Manresa, Ignatius developed a method of discernment that has guided countless souls toward deeper union with God. His writings, including personal reminiscences, a spiritual diary, and select letters, reveal a life marked by missionary zeal, intellectual rigor, and unwavering devotion, influencing global Catholicism and beyond.