Jesuit Scientific Tradition and Ignatian Spirituality

From its foundation by St. Ignatius in 1540 and linked to its educational work, the Society of Jesus has maintained a continuous and institutional involvement in the natural sciences unparalleled by any other religious order in the Catholic Church. Because its foundation coincided with the beginning of modern science and the educational work in colleges and universities, mathematical and experimental science was soon introduced in their programs. Thus the Jesuit scientific tradition was established. This tradition can be explained by the characteristics of Jesuit or Ignatian spirituality, a mystique of service, understood as a service to God through the apostolic ministry to men. At its core is the emphasis of “finding God in all things” and seeking in their work the greater glory of God. This leads Jesuits sometimes to unconventional work on the frontiers an example of which is scientific work. Jesuit scientists found an affinity between scientific work and their spirituality and try to integrate both together in their lives.