St Ignatius and the Two Wolves

Summary

The video script narrates the transformative journey of Inigo, a member of the noble Loyola family, who evolves from a wild youth to a devout follower of Christ. After a life-changing injury, he dedicates himself to a spiritual quest, eventually founding the Society of Jesus and becoming St. Ignatius. The story underscores the power of perseverance, the importance of finding one's purpose, and the Jesuit principles of 'Magis'—striving for excellence in service to God and humanity.

Takeaways

• 🏰 The story is set in the Basque region of Spain, highlighting the historical significance of the Loyola family and their coat of arms featuring two wolves and a pot.
• 👦 Inigo de Loyola, born in 1491, was the youngest of 13 children and was sent to live with a noble family at the age of 14 to learn courtly manners and chivalry.
• ⚔️ Inigo initially pursued a life of knighthood, engaging in gambling, drinking, and fighting, until a battle injury led to a life-changing moment and a shift in his priorities.
• 🙏 After surviving a near-death experience, Inigo dedicated himself to a life of devotion, promising to serve Saint Peter and eventually becoming a pilgrim.
• 📚 During his recovery, Inigo read about Christ and the Saints, which inspired him to adopt a life of piety and to write the Spiritual Exercises, guiding individuals in contemplation and discernment.
• 🛤️ Inigo's journey of self-discovery led him to various places, including Montserrat, where he symbolically laid down his knightly weapons, and Manresa, where he deepened his spiritual practices.
• 🤝 In Paris, Inigo met like-minded individuals, including Peter Faber and Francis Xavier, and together they formed the Society of Jesus, also known as the Jesuits.
• 📖 Ignatius, as he came to be known, emphasized education and founded colleges for priests, focusing on higher learning as a means to spread the Christian faith effectively.
• 🌍 The Jesuits, under Ignatius's leadership, adopted a global mission, with members serving in various capacities, including education, research, and social work.
• 🕊️ Ignatius's legacy is marked by his commitment to 'Magis' (ever greater), encouraging continuous improvement and service to the greater glory of God.

Q & A

Who is the main character of the story in the transcript?

The main character of the story is Inigo, also known as Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus.

What is the significance of the Loyola coat of arms?

The Loyola coat of arms features two wolves with a pot in the middle, symbolizing the family's name which is derived from 'Lobo' (wolf) and 'Yalla' (pot) in Spanish. It also foreshadows the life of Ignatius of Loyola.

What event in Ignatius' early life led to a significant change in his behavior and priorities?

During the defense of Pamplona against the French, Ignatius was injured by a cannonball, shattering his right leg and injuring his left. This event led to a profound change in his life, as he began to focus on his spiritual journey.

What did Ignatius do during his recovery from his injuries?

During his recovery, Ignatius read books on the life of Christ and the Saints, which sparked his interest in a spiritual life. He also underwent painful operations to straighten his bones without anesthesia.

What was the turning point for Ignatius that led him to abandon his life as a knight?

The turning point for Ignatius was his survival of a near-fatal injury during the battle of Pamplona. He made a promise to Saint Peter to devote his skills as a knight and a poet to the saint if he lived.

What is the meaning behind Ignatius' change of attire at the monastery of Montserrat?

Ignatius' change of attire to a rough sackcloth and placing his sword and dagger at the feet of the statue of Our Lady symbolized his abandonment of his life as a knight and the beginning of his new life as a knight of Christ.

What is the significance of the Spiritual Exercises that Ignatius developed?

The Spiritual Exercises are a set of meditations, prayers, and mental exercises designed to help individuals discern the will of God in their lives. They are a cornerstone of Ignatian spirituality.

Why did Ignatius decide to pursue higher education later in life?

Ignatius decided to pursue higher education to better serve God and to be equipped to teach others about the Christian faith. He believed that education was essential for those willing to spread the Christian faith.

What was the mission of the Society of Jesus, as envisioned by Ignatius?

The mission of the Society of Jesus, as envisioned by Ignatius, was to find God in all things, to help the poor, give spiritual assistance, and to serve the Church in whatever mission the Pope wished.

What is the concept of 'Magis' and how did Ignatius apply it to his life and the Society of Jesus?

The concept of 'Magis' is Latin for 'more' and signifies a commitment to always strive for more, to never settle for the commonplace, and to give one's best in all endeavors. Ignatius applied this concept to his life and the Society of Jesus by emphasizing continuous improvement and dedication to service.

How did Ignatius' approach to health and well-being influence the Society of Jesus?

Ignatius emphasized the importance of health and well-being for the brothers, advising them to eat and rest properly and to avoid excessive penance. This approach was incorporated into the Society's practices to ensure that members could serve God effectively.