Ignatius of Loyola (1491– July 31, 1556) was a Spanish noble knight,
hermit, priest, and theologian, who founded the Society of Jesus
(Jesuits). Emerging as a religious leader during the
Counter-Reformation, Loyola became the first Jesuit Superior General
and insisted on absolute obedience to the Pope. He was beatified by
Pope Paul V in 1609, canonized by Pope Gregory XV in 1622, and
declared patron Saint of all spiritual retreats by Pope Pius XI in
1922.
