St. Ignatius of Loyola | Pray for Us
Heavyweight 100% cotton shirt with a relaxed drop-shoulder fit, vintage garment wash, tonal chest embroidery, and a woven SIGNUMX interior neck label.
St. Ignatius of Loyola, the wounded soldier who became the founder of the Jesuits and author of the Spiritual Exercises, is honored on July 31.
Quick Facts
| Feast Day | July 31, Memorial |
| Life & Canonization | Born 1491 at Loyola, Spain; died July 31, 1556 in Rome; beatified 1609; canonized March 12, 1622 by Gregory XV |
| Patronage | Spiritual retreats (named by Pius XI in 1922), the Society of Jesus, soldiers, and the Basque Country |
| Symbols | Priestly vestments, the IHS monogram, a book inscribed AMDG |
The Life of St. Ignatius of Loyola
Ignatius was a dashing Basque soldier who loved fine clothes, romance novels and glory. In 1521 a cannonball shattered his leg, and he was so worried about his looks that he had the bone reset again so it would look good in his tights. During the long recovery, the only books around were a life of Christ and stories of the saints.
He noticed that daydreams of fame left him empty, while thoughts of following Christ left him peaceful. That insight became the Spiritual Exercises, a guide to prayer and decision-making used by millions. With his friends, including St. Francis Xavier, he founded the Jesuits, who built schools and universities around the world.
Shirt Details
- Fabric: Heavyweight 100% cotton
- Fit: Relaxed drop-shoulder
- Details: Chest embroidery, woven SIGNUMX neck label
- Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
Frequently Asked Questions
Did he really have his leg rebroken for vanity?
Yes. He wanted his leg to look good in fashionable tights, so he endured another painful surgery. He later laughed at his younger self.
What are the Spiritual Exercises?
A month-long guide of prayers and reflections that helps people meet Christ and make good decisions. Retreats based on it are offered everywhere.
What is the Daily Examen?
A short prayer he taught: look back over your day, notice where God was present, give thanks and ask for help tomorrow. Many people pray it before bed.
What does AMDG mean?
Ad Maiorem Dei Gloriam, "for the greater glory of God," the Jesuit motto students write at the top of their papers.
What is the Suscipe?
His prayer of total trust: "Take, Lord, and receive all my liberty, my memory, my understanding and my entire will."
What is he the patron of?
Soldiers, retreats, Jesuit schools and people discerning big decisions.
When is his feast?
July 31.