Memorial of St. Ignatius of Loyola, Priest

Today's Mass Readings

For King and Kingdom
Today, the Church remembers and celebrates a great soldier-saint, St. Ignatius of Loyola, who died on this day in 1556. He was born in Loyola, Castile (modern-day Spain), and died in Rome, where he was still serving as the general superior of the religious order he founded, the Society of Jesus, the Jesuits.

The youngest of 13 children in a noble and wealthy family, Ignatius was a disciplined young man, who loved swordsmanship, military parades, and serving in the militia of the kingdom. Ignatius proved himself to be successful in military campaigns and was sure to have a future in advancing the glory of his homeland.

But that future was shattered when, at the Battle of Pamplona (20 May 1521), Ignatius was hit by a cannon shot that injured one leg and broke his other. He was taken back to Loyola as a casualty, but his wounds were not healing well. They had to operate more and re-set his broken leg.

During his time of healing, Ignatius was being healed in another way. He was not a fervent believer, but he took up books on the lives of the saints and the life of Christ. He, in turn, was taken up by the heroism and chivalry of these holy men and women and could see himself living a life of following Christ. So, on his hospital bed, he resolved to make himself a new future, advancing the mission of Christ the King for the greater glory of God and His Kingdom.

Reflection:
By means of a cannonball, Ignatius was forced to reflect on the trajectory of his life. He looked within himself and discerned God’s will and what He wanted him to do. Hopefully, we can take the time for reflection by means less forceful. And when we do, may we be open to the action of the Holy Spirit and where He wants to lead us.

Reflection by Br. Luke Kral, OSB