Saint Ignatius of Loyola | July 31

Saint Ignatius of Loyola

Feast Day: July 31
Died: July 31, 1556
Patronage: Soldiers, educators, and retreats; founder of the Society of Jesus

Born in the Basque region of Spain, Saint Ignatius of Loyola was first a soldier of earthly wars, but through grace became a soldier of Christ. After a severe injury in battle, he underwent a profound conversion while reading the Lives of the Saints. His heart ignited with holy desire, he founded the Society of Jesus—the Jesuits—to defend and spread the Catholic Faith through education, missionary work, and spiritual direction.

His Spiritual Exercises remain a cornerstone of Catholic formation, leading countless souls to discern God’s will and serve Him with greater devotion. The relics of Saint Ignatius are enshrined in the Church of the Gesù in Rome, where pilgrims come to renew their zeal for the greater glory of God (Ad majorem Dei gloriam). Saint Ignatius shows us that true strength is found not in conquest, but in surrender to divine love.