Who We are
The Society of Jesus was founded in 1540 by Saint Ignatius Loyola and his companions. The Jesuit mission is a mission of reconciliation, working so that women and men can be reconciled with God, with themselves, with each other and with God’s creation. Today we count more than 200 higher education institutions in the Jesuit network in partnership with a great number of lay people. Together we educate more than 1 million students, from all kinds of religious, cultural, social and language backgrounds in 5 continents and more than 50 countries.
Our History
The Society of Jesus was founded in 1540 by St. Ignatius Loyola with the approval of Pope Paul III. Ignatius Loyola had gathered around him an energetic band of well-educated men who desired nothing more than to help others find God in their lives. It was Ignatius’ original plan that the Jesuits be travelling missionaries who would preach and administer the sacraments wherever there was the hope of accomplishing the greater good. Since its foundation the Order has grown from the original ten to more than 15,000 Jesuits worldwide.
Finding God in All Things
The mission of Saint Ignatius and his companions was born in personal experience of God. This encounter with a loving God is at the heart of our mission as we reach out to others and live the gospel. Our spirituality is grounded in the conviction that God is active in our world. The spiritual path laid out by Ignatius helps us discern God's presence, to find God in all things, reaching out to a diverse, grace filled yet imperfect world. We bring this spirituality into the wider human context as we strive for social justice, peace and dialogue. Being a contemplative in action means that our active life feeds our contemplative life and our contemplative life informs our active life.
Higher Education
Depth and creativity are key words in the Society’s missions and ministries and are the cornerstone of our mission in Higher Education. We have universities and higher education faculties in over 80 countries of the world. They are devoted to an in-depth appreciation of the world that we live in. They promote an ever deeper understanding of the human person and the dynamics at work in our world - inter-personal, religious, social, physical and cultural. An example of their strong commitment to mission can be found here.
Main Characteristics of Jesuit Higher Education
Jesuit higher education is distinguished by principles that align with the mission of the Society of Jesus, emphasizing academic excellence, moral and spiritual growth, and a commitment to justice and service. These values shape Jesuit universities' and colleges' curriculum, environment, and goals.
Jesuit higher education seeks to form students into global citizens—locally engaged and globally aware individuals. It promotes intercultural dialogue, international cooperation, and respect for diverse perspectives. This global orientation reflects the Jesuit tradition of going beyond borders to serve humanity. Students are often encouraged to participate in international programs, learn about different cultures, and confront global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change.
The Characteristics of Jesuit Higher Education
Commitment to Excellence
Jesuit institutions place a strong emphasis on academic excellence coupled with ethical reflection. Jesuit education fosters a rigorous academic environment where critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and in-depth inquiry are highly valued.
Care for the Whole Person (Cura Personalis)
A foundational principle of Jesuit education is "cura personalis," or care for the whole person. This holistic approach encourages students to grow in self-awareness, develop their values, and discover their purpose in life.
Service and Justice-Oriented Education
Social justice and service are cornerstones of Jesuit education. Rooted in the Jesuit mission to serve "the greater good," students are called to be "men and women for others."
Ignatian pedagogy emphasizes the importance of reflection and discernment. Students are encouraged to pause and reflect on their learning experiences, personal values, and future choices.
Six priority issues for Jesuit Higher Education
CIVIC AND POLITICAL LEADERSHIP FORMATION
FORMATION OF IGNATIAN LEADERSHIP
EDUCATION FOR THOSE AT THE MARGINS
ECONOMIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
INTER-RELIGIOUS DIALOGUE/SECULARISM
PEACE AND RECONCILIATION ADVOCACY