Ignatius of Loyola

Ignatius of Loyola was a Spanish knight from a local Basque noble family, hermit, priest since 1537, and theologian. He also formed the Society of Jesus (Jesuits).

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"Ignatius Loyola, while studying at Salamanca (1527) was brought before an ecclesiastical commission on a charge of sympathy with the alumbrados, but escaped with an admonition."-Encyclopedia Brittanica, Vol. 14, 1911 page 320

Ignatius and six followers bound themselves by vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. In 1539, they formed the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), approved in 1540 by Pope Paul III, as well as his Spiritual Exercises approved in 1548. Loyola also composed the Constitutions of the Society and on 19 April 1541, he became its first Superior General.