Reimagining the soldier, seeker, and shepherd

In 1491, a child named Iñigo López de Ofiaz y Loyola was born in the Basque region of Spain. This child would later be known as Ignatius of Loyola, the esteemed founder of the Jesuit order. The place name Loyola means ‘of the earth or clay’. Thus, St. Ignatius’ life vividly embodies the transformative journey of the ‘clay in the hands of the Master Potter’. The molding is from ‘soldier, seeker, to shepherd’, illustrating a profound evolution fueled by faith, self-discovery, and a steadfast commitment to the greater glory of God. It was a resolute journey of ‘ab imo ad astra, ‘from the mud to the stars’. Let us delve into reimagining the spiritual dimensions of soldier, seeker, and shepherd evident in the life of Ignatius of Loyola and their relevance to present-day founders in the making.

- BY FR. PRABATH SANJEEVA FERNANDO, S.J.

The Soldier

The concept of the Soldier of Christ is a compelling metaphor for Christian vocation. It challenges the faithful to embrace a life marked by spiritual discipline, courage, and unwavering adherence to the teachings of Jesus of Nazareth. Just as historical soldiers demonstrated valor and dedication, and served their emperors with utmost commitment, Christians are called to serve with similar fervor and devotion, seeking to serve in all aspects of life. As the famous adage of military regiments boldly claim, 'service before self.'

In his early years, Ignatius of Loyola was driven by a fervent desire for military acclaim and reputation. Serving initially as a page to Juan Velázquez de Cuéllar, treasurer of the kingdom of Castile, he later took up arms. His primary aim was to defend and honor his earthly king, prepared to sacrifice his life for the cause. No wonder, Ignatius' valor and strategic military expertise earned him significant recognition and respect. Even without war he walked about and went on horseback dressed in uniform. However, his life took a decisive turn during the Battle of Pamplona in 1521. A cannonball shattered his right leg, leaving him grievously wounded and confined to bed for several months. This period of recovery prompted him to reflect deeply on the nature, meaning, and purpose of life and personal ambitions. We are soldiers under the banner of His Cross. A few lines extracted from the lyrics thus go.

"Noble knight, leader of the brave array, Lead us on, O lead us on; We will fight 'Neath thy sway, 'neath thy sway; Lead us on gallantly, ever more valiantly, Neath thy banner to fight, for the Church and its rights. "All for God's own greater glory" is our cry, our battle cry.

The Seeker