The Jesuits are a religious order of Catholic priests and brothers. We were founded in 1540 by Saint Ignatius of Loyola to follow Jesus and share in his mission of justice and reconciliation. From the beginning, our path has led us into unfamiliar places and toward those in greatest need. We do not go to bring certainty, but to offer presence. Where lives are broken or hope has grown dim, we try to walk gently and stay long enough for healing to begin.
For nearly five centuries, Jesuits have lived their vocation in many forms — as educators, scientists, pastors, artists, and advocates. Some became saints, one became pope, and many simply lived faithful lives of quiet service. What unites us is not what we do, but how we do it. We live in communities with other Jesuits, remain rooted in prayer, and allow ourselves to be drawn toward those on the margins.
Today, almost 14,000 Jesuits serve in 112 countries. In Canada, approximately 140 priests and brothers — rooted in over 15 locations — carry this mission forward. That said, we do not walk alone. In every work, we rely on women and men who labour with us as apostolic partners. They come from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Together, we seek to heal what is broken and reveal the presence of God where it is least expected.
The Jesuit worldview invites us to find the sacred hidden discreetly within the world — in the classroom and on the street, in moments of silence and in the cries for change. It forms people who are ready to discern, willing to be moved, and unafraid to ask what love requires next. The goal is not perfection or success, but freedom and fidelity. We seek the kind of freedom that makes space for others, and the kind of fidelity that holds firm when love feels costly.
Ignatius once called himself a pilgrim. It was not a title, but a way of life — unattached, humble, and available to be sent. Jesuits live in that same spirit. We do not claim to know the full path, but we take the next step in trust. We rely on the generosity of others and, in return, strive to be signs of God’s goodness wherever the mission takes us.
Whether you are discerning a Jesuit vocation or feel called to partner with us in your own way, we invite you to take that first step. The Society of Jesus continues its pilgrimage. It does not seek status or success, but a desire to love without limits and serve without fear. This road begins anew each time someone says yes to grace and offers their life in service of the Gospel.
At the heart of our mission are core values that shape our interactions and guide our path forward. They reflect not just what we do, but who we are:
We’re on a journey, always learning. We don’t claim to have all the answers, but we’re committed to seeking them out, hand in hand with others.
Our relationships are a two-way exchange. We learn as much from our encounters with others as they might from us.
We strive to create a world where every voice is valued, from the youth to the elders, and everyone in between.
Our doors are open. Whether you’re seeking spiritual guidance or a helping hand, we’re here to welcome and support you.
We prioritize depth and intention in our actions, ensuring each step we take has purpose and meaning.
The Society of Jesus’ four Universal Apostolic Preferences guide our mission.
To show the way to God through the Spiritual Exercises and discernment.
To walk with the poor, the outcasts of the world, in a mission of reconciliation and justice.
To accompany young people in the creation of a hope-filled future.
To collaborate in the care of our Common Home.
The Jesuits, founded by Ignatius of Loyola in 1540, have always been at the forefront of spirituality, education and social justice work.
From its inception, the Jesuits have emphasized the transformative power of the Spiritual Exercises. This spiritual journey, which began with Ignatius of Loyola, has been guiding individuals towards discovering their life’s deepest desires and purpose for centuries. The Jesuits’ early interactions with Indigenous knowledge carriers,
such as the Wendat Joseph Chihouatenha, exemplify their commitment to listening, learning and adapting spiritual teachings to diverse contexts.
The Jesuits’ arrival in “Acadia,” now Canada, in 1611 marked the beginning of their longstanding relationship with the Indigenous peoples and settlers of the region. Through their missions, they not only aimed to convert but also to provide spiritual guidance and education. Their commitment to fostering authentic relationships is evident in their endeavors to understand and respect the languages and cultures of Indigenous peoples.
The Jesuits’ history is not without its challenges. Their involvement in the residential school system and other past transgressions highlight the need for truth, reconciliation and justice. Recognizing these shortcomings, the Jesuits in Canada have taken steps, such as issuing apologies and participating in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, to address and respond to the harm caused. Their commitment to justice and reconciliation is unwavering, as they continue to advocate for marginalized groups and promote justice in today’s world.
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