Image Source: https://jcapsj.org/2016/11/eleven-jesuits-ordained-deacons-philippines/

The Society of Jesus, a Roman Catholic order of priests and brothers was founded half a millennium ago by the soldier-turned-mystic Ignatius Loyola. But most people call the group “the Jesuits.”

In the vision of our founder, Jesuits seek to “find God in all things.” They dedicate themselves to the “greater glory of God” and the good of all humanity. And they do so gratefully in collaboration with others who share their values, including laypersons. The lay partners have become part of the “we,” the extended Jesuit family.

With 16,000-plus priests, brothers, scholastics and novices worldwide, the Society of Jesus is the largest male religious order in the Catholic Church. They are pastors, teachers, and chaplains. There are also doctors, lawyers, and astronomers, among many other roles in Church and society. In the Jesuits' varied ministries, they care for the whole person: body, mind, and soul. And especially in our their education ministries, they seek to nurture “men and women for others.”

Jesuits draw on the rich tradition of Ignatian spirituality and reflection. In their retreat centers, parishes, campus ministries, and other settings, they offer these resources to all who want to discern God’s presence in their lives. At the same time, Jesuits also aim to be “contemplatives in action,” people who bring this spirituality into the wide world. That includes the work on behalf of global justice, peace, and dialogue. (jesuits.org)