Exploring the Heritage of St. Ignatius and the Jesuits

Jesuit institutions draw from the rich heritage of visionary men such as Ignatius of Loyola, Francis Xavier and Pierre Favre who responded to God's call to embody the values of the Gospel and respond to the unique challenges of their day. Travel to places where these and other early Jesuits forged new approaches to Christian life inspires modern men and women, particularly those activie in Jesuit institutions, to respond to the same Spirit and be visionaries themselves.

Illume collaborates with leaders of Jesuit parishes, schools, provinces and colleges/universities to create programs that make the history of the early Jesuits come to life and that allow participants to enter into their world. These programs help connect participants with the Ignatian heritage and encourage them to preserve that heritage in their own work and ministry.

Program Objectives

Explore the life and times of Ignatius of Loyola and Francis Xavier in Spain

Ignatius' birthplace and the sanctuary that commemorates his life and work at Loyola is a powerfully moving site. Visitors gain an appreciation for the cultural and historical roots of Igantius' life in this beautiful region of Spain and how his home and family heritage shaped the context of his call from God. Nearby, the castle of Xavier allows participants to gain an equally moving appreciation for Francis Xavier's family origins. Travel to Montserrat where Igantius received a unique interior call at a site that has been a pilgrimage destination for centuries. Visit the Cave at Manresa where Ignatius worte the Spiritual Exercises.

Explore Rome of the 16th century and the institutions begun by the early Jesuits

Ignatius and his early companions made their way to Rome and eventually received approval for The Society of Jesus from Pope Paul III in 1540. Travel to Rome provides visitors with the opportunity to consider the historical events and the cultural dynamics that made the early Jesuits' so enthusiastic about serving the Church. There was intense interest in Church renewal at this time and the early Jesuits were quick to respond with innovative institutions. Visits to the Collegio Romano, the Gesu, the Ignatian apartments, the Church of St. Igantius, the Gregorian University, the Germanicum, S. Andrea, La Storta and other sites in and around Rome make this exciting history come to life!

Enjoy local historical, cultural and religious treasures in Spain, Italy and other countries where the Jesuits were pivotal in shaping religious and civic institutions

Group travel is an exciting way to build community and to share perspectives. As members of Jesuit institutions travel to places such as northeast Spain, Italy or other destinations where Jesuits were active, they not only explore history but can enjoy and savor local artistic and cultural treasures in a context that encourages personal and group transformation. After traveling to Loyola, Xavier, Manresa and Montserrat, some groups spend extended time exploring the exciting and vibrant city of Barcelona. Groups that travel to Rome explore not only the great Renaissance treasures of the Vatican but also important early Christian sites such as the Basilica of San Clemente, the catacombs, and sites recently discovered in and around the Roman Forum.