IGNATIUS (of) LOYOLA
- Era: 1491 - 1556
- Location: Spain Italy
- Categories: RELIGION
Joint founder of the society of Jesus (the Jesuits), given papal approval in 1540. He had previously been a Spanish soldier and hospital worker. His Spiritual Exercises were written as a basis for training the Jesuit missionaries in preparation for their travels to Brazil, India and Japan. By the time of his death there were almost a thousand members. The exercises rooted religion in the heart and not just the head. Examination of conscience is fundamental to good learning. He also founded the Gregorian University in Rome.
Life
- Catholic Encyclopedia account of the life and work of Ignatius
- Britannica biography of Ignatius and history of the Jesuits
Writings