Pioneers of The Spirit: Ignatius Loyola

Throughout history a few special individuals have felt a spiritual longing so profound that nothing could satisfy their hunger. Facing uncharted territory, they mapped their own souls, seeking that mystical place where the self meets the divine. We call them Pioneers of the Spirit.

Born in Spain of noble parents, he spent a carefree youth until he entered the army and was wounded at the battle of Pampeluna in 1521. During his convalescence he had a religious conversion. After a brief monastic experience he went on to acquire a university education. With several student friends Loyola founded the Society of Jesus (The Jesuits), which eventually received papal approval and is still noted for education and missions. His "spiritual exercises" are used by multitudes to this day.