The Jesuits: A History

The Jesuits got started in the 1500s when a Spanish noble was injured selflessly fighting in a battle. He spent time reading in his recovery and focussed on religious works. St Ignatius of Loyola would go on devote his life to God and found the Society of Jesus.

The Jesuits take a vow of poverty and are devoted to education and service. They do not seek higher office, though will take it if needed. (The current Pope is a Jesuit.) They have been heavily involved in missionary work, both in Europe and throughout the world. They desired that supplicants make a complete conversion before baptism. (Though this would sometimes be relaxed near death.)

A few centuries ago, the order had a falling out with the Catholic hierarchy. Some countries felt they were loyal to others, while the church did not trust them. They were later rehabilitated and went on to grow.

The order was initially known to be very conservative. However they also have a strong mandate to serve the poor and support open enquiry in education. These are both associated with more liberal ideology. They continue to have a strong devotion to the church and Jesus.

This history is quite long, with a strong focus on the early history of the order.