A trip through Spain isn’t complete without stopping at Loyola - birthplace of St. Ignatius. Ignatius grew up in a wealthy, noble family. Since he was a child Ignatius wanted read and dreamed about chivalry. He wanted to be a soldier and he entered the battle of Pamplona convinced he was answering God’s call for his life. However, when he was injured by a canon ball in battle everything changed. He was laid low for 9 months recovering from his injuries. He almost died. His leg was re-set when he insisted his leg be re-broken so that he could walk without I a limp (in order to appear better suited for the ladies!). During his recuperation his brother gave him two books to read - one on the life of Christ; the other on the lives of the saints. Indigo became consumed by these recede and turned his life over to Jesus. He read of St. Francis and Dominic and became desirous to become a saint. He hadn’t been much of a student but then wanted to study in Paris and went back to school in his 30’s. He was ordained and had a strong desire to serve the poor. His life had completely changed and he was passionate to serve God and to create a “company” of men who would dedicate their lives to God, live to educate young people, and be obedient to the holy father. Ignatius’ missionary efforts would bring the Catholic Church to the far reaching places of the world like India and China and his community today continues to support leaders and educators throughout the world. It all began here - in the city of Loyola, Spain and we were blessed enough to have Mass in Indigo’s bedroom - the “room where it happened,”. The room where it all began.”
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