Review article
Ignatius of Loyola and Francis Xavier
Julius Oswald
; Visoka škola za filozofiju, Munchen, Njemačka
Abstract
The article depicts part of the life history, work and canonization process of two very close companions: Ignatius of Loyola (1491-1566) and Francis Xavier (1596-1552). They are generally considered founders of the Jesuit Order. They met during the time that they were studying in Paris in 1529. A brilliant career awaited Francis Xavier who had just completed his Master’s Degree. However, grace effected a change in Francis' life, namely, through Ignatius. Ignatius who had experienced his conversion while ill and bedridden, and who had had a mystical experience which enabled him to lead others to God through his spiritual exercises, persuaded the capable philosophy teacher, Francis to join him in proclaiming Jesus the Lord. Gradually, Ignatius attracted to himself a group of students with a common desire to devote their lives to their personal sanctification and the serving of souls, by renouncing all earthly goods and honours. After completing their studies, together with their five companions, Francis and Ignatius were ordained into the priesthood in Venice in 1537. This group, which had placed itself at the disposal of the Roman primate, called itself "The Society of Jesus" and in 1540 Pope Paul III approved the order.
Friendship between the two saints, who had only the "glory of God" at heart, was not jeopardized even when Francis Xavier left Rome on a mission to India. The numerous letters exchanged between these two honourable men testifies to their exceptional friendship. It is no surprise, therefore, that these two saints, promoters of renewal within the Catholic Church and proclaimers of the Good News, true "friends in the Lord," were canonized simultaneously in 1622 by Pope Gregory XV.
Keywords
Hrčak ID:
1304
URI
Publication date:
3.12.2002.
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