Founded in 1540 by St. Ignatius of Loyola, a Spanish soldier turned mystic, during the Catholic Counter-Reformation. The largest male religious order in the Church, Jesuits operate renowned universities, schools, and research institutions. They are also deeply engaged in social justice and interreligious dialogue. Their order reports only to the [[Pope]]. | Founded in 1540 by St. Ignatius of Loyola, a Spanish soldier turned mystic, during the Catholic Counter-Reformation. The largest male religious order in the Church, Jesuits operate renowned universities, schools, and research institutions. They are also deeply engaged in social justice and interreligious dialogue. Their order reports only to the [[Pope]]. |