In 2013, history was made when Jorge Mario Bergoglio became Pope Francis, the first Jesuit to ascend to the papacy. His election was groundbreaking—not only because he hailed from Latin America but also because he represented the Society of Jesus, an order often viewed as distinct within the Catholic Church. This unique background sparked curiosity about the Jesuits, their mission and their influence on Pope Francis’ leadership.
The Impact of Jesuit Values on Pope Francis’ Leadership
To understand what it means to be a Jesuit today, we must delve into their history, their evolving mission and the challenges they face in the modern world. Jesuits are not just priests—they are educators, scholars and advocates for social justice. Their approach, deeply rooted in faith and intellectual rigor, continues to inspire people worldwide.
A Complex Legacy: The History of the Jesuits
The Society of Jesus, founded by St. Ignatius of Loyola in 1540, emerged as a transformative force during the Catholic Counter-Reformation. Dedicated to education, missionary work and defending Catholic doctrine, the Jesuits quickly gained influence across Europe and beyond. They established schools, universities and missions, spreading their faith to the Americas, Asia and Africa.
However, their growing influence also led to conflicts. Their independence and intellectualism often clashed with the Vatican, resulting in periods of tension. The term “The Black Pope,” used to describe the Jesuit Superior General, exemplifies this unease, symbolizing both respect for their power and suspicion of their autonomy.
Despite these challenges, the Jesuits persisted, adhering to their mission of “the salvation and perfection of others.” This enduring commitment continues to shape their identity today.
Modern Jesuit Missions: From Evangelization to Social Justice
In today’s world, the Jesuits have diversified their mission to address contemporary challenges. According to the Jesuits of Spain, their work spans eight primary apostolates, each reflecting a dynamic engagement with society:
- Social Apostolate: Supporting refugees, assisting the homeless and fighting social inequality.
- Theological Apostolate: Producing scholarly writings on faith and God.
- Academic Apostolate: Collaborating with universities and promoting scientific research.
- Spiritual Exercises Apostolate: Sharing St. Ignatius’ teachings through retreats and workshops.
- Missionary Apostolate: Expanding Catholic faith worldwide through evangelization.
- Media Apostolate: Utilizing mass communication to spread their message.
- Educational Apostolate: Operating schools and universities to nurture future generations.
- Lay Collaboration: Encouraging laypeople to integrate faith into their personal and public lives.
Each apostolate reflects the Jesuits’ adaptability, emphasizing their “calling to serve God in all things.” Their work is not limited to spiritual matters—it extends into the realms of education, advocacy and intellectual inquiry, offering a holistic approach to addressing societal needs.
Education and Intellectual Rigor: A Cornerstone of Jesuit Identity
Education has always been at the heart of the Jesuit mission. From their early days, Jesuits have founded institutions that promote critical thinking, moral development and intellectual excellence. Today, Jesuit universities are renowned for their emphasis on ethical leadership and academic rigor.
This focus on education is deeply connected to their faith. Jesuits believe that knowledge is a path to understanding God and the world. Pope Francis embodies this ideal, with a background in philosophy and theology that reflects the order’s dedication to scholarly pursuits. His leadership challenges the notion that faith and reason are incompatible, showing instead that they can complement and enrich one another.
Moreover, Jesuit institutions strive to prepare individuals not only for professional success but also for meaningful contributions to society. This educational ethos, often summarized by the Latin phrase “cura personalis” (care for the whole person), resonates with people seeking a deeper sense of purpose in their lives.
Faith in Action: Social Justice and Advocacy
The Jesuits’ commitment to social justice sets them apart within the Catholic Church. Inspired by the teachings of Jesus and the example of St. Ignatius, they work tirelessly to address the root causes of poverty, inequality and environmental degradation. Their efforts extend beyond charity, focusing on systemic change and advocacy.
For example, Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) provides critical support to displaced individuals worldwide, offering education, shelter and hope. Similarly, their environmental initiatives align with Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’, which calls for urgent action to protect the planet. These projects embody the Jesuits’ belief that faith must be lived out through works of justice.
This commitment is particularly evident in Pope Francis’ papacy. His emphasis on humility, inclusivity and care for the marginalized reflects the Jesuit ideal of finding God in all things. Whether addressing climate change, advocating for economic equity, or calling for peace, his actions demonstrate how deeply intertwined Jesuit values are with his leadership.
Challenges in a Changing World
While the Jesuits have adapted to modern times, they face significant challenges. As an order known for progressive thinking, they often navigate tensions with more conservative elements of the Church. Balancing their mission of innovation with adherence to tradition requires careful diplomacy.
Pope Francis, as a Jesuit, embodies this balancing act. His approach has been both celebrated and criticized, highlighting the difficulty of leading an institution as vast and diverse as the Catholic Church. Nevertheless, his leadership continues to inspire millions, showcasing the relevance of Jesuit principles in addressing global issues.
Why Jesuit Values Matter Today
The enduring influence of the Jesuits lies in their ability to bridge faith and action. Their focus on education, intellectual inquiry and social advocacy offers a model for living a life of purpose and service. In an increasingly complex world, their values resonate with those seeking deeper connections between their beliefs and the challenges they face.
For Pope Francis, being a Jesuit is not just about his religious identity—it is a guiding force in his mission to lead the Church. His efforts to promote dialogue, foster unity and champion justice reflect the core of Jesuit spirituality: a faith that does justice.
As we reflect on the legacy and mission of the Jesuits, it is clear that their work continues to shape the world in profound ways. Their vision, rooted in a centuries-old tradition, remains as relevant as ever, offering hope and inspiration for generations to come.
Further Reading
To explore the Jesuit mission and Pope Francis’ leadership in more depth, consider these resources:
