Saint Ignatius of Loyola: a founder and spiritual guide

The feast of St Ignatius of Loyola is celebrated every year on 31 July. St Ignatius of Loyola is the founder of the Society of Jesus and a spiritual guide known for his devotion to faith and guidance of souls, St Ignatius of Loyola is often invoked for spiritual guidance and personal growth. St Ignatius of Loyola, spiritual guide, pray for us to follow the way of Jesus.

Who is Saint Ignatius of Loyola?

His story

St Ignatius of Loyola was a religious and founder of the Jesuit movement in the 16th century. Born in Spain in 1491, he embarked on a military life before changing his path after being wounded in the battle of Pamplona. He made a spiritual pilgrimage to Jerusalem and spent several years in retreat to devote himself to prayer and meditation. Following this, he founded the Society of Jesus, a society of priests dedicated to the defence of the Church and the spread of Christian teaching. St Ignatius of Loyola is recognised for his influence on the development of Catholic spirituality and for his contribution to the formation of the Jesuits, considered one of the most important religious orders in the Catholic Church.

His significance

St Ignatius of Loyola is considered the founder of the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits), a society of Catholic priests and brothers dedicated to teaching and mission. He is considered an example of devotion and determination in the spiritual life and his life is often seen as a model of conversion and consecration to God. St Ignatius is also known for his book "Spiritual Exercises", which is considered a guide to personal devotion and the spiritual life. In sum, the significance of St Ignatius of Loyola is linked to his impact on the religious, spiritual and missionary life of the Catholic Church. 

Celebration of the Feast of St Ignatius of Loyola

Religious rituals

The Feast of St Ignatius of Loyola celebrates the life and teachings of one of the founders of the Society of Jesus, a Catholic religious congregation. Religious rituals include masses, prayers and processions in honour of Saint Ignatius. Some churches also organise spiritual retreats to allow the faithful to connect with the life and teachings of this important saint. Readings on his life and philosophy may also be included in the religious ceremonies on this day.

Prayer to Saint Ignatius of Loyola

O Saint Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus, we pray that you help us to cultivate a greater devotion to Jesus Christ.

Help us to live in humility and simplicity, following the example of your life.

Show us how to be witnesses of God's love in the whole world.

We thank you for your determination to serve God, despite the difficulties and obstacles you faced.

Give us the courage to face our own challenges with the same determination.

May your prayer for the growth of the Church and the salvation of all people inspire us to live according to Gospel principles.

We pray to you in union with Jesus Christ our Lord, for the reign of God and peace in the world.

Amen.