Who founded the Jesuit order?

The Jesuit order, formally known as the Society of Jesus, was founded by St. Ignatius of Loyola in the early 16th century. Ignatius was a Spanish soldier turned priest who, after experiencing a profound spiritual transformation, dedicated his life to God and the service of the church. He, along with a small group of companions, established the Jesuits in 1534, intending to promote education, missionary work, and the fight against Protestantism during the Reformation.

The Jesuit order became known for its rigorous educational programs and its role in the Counter-Reformation, which aimed to reform the Catholic Church from within and to combat the spread of Protestantism. St. Ignatius authored the "Spiritual Exercises," a collection of meditations and prayers that guide spiritual development and are fundamental to the Jesuit approach to spirituality.

Understanding the significance of the Jesuits provides insight into their pivotal role in the Reformation and their lasting impact on education, theology, and global missions.