The Feast of St. Ignatius is something of a family holiday. Ignatian folks all over the world celebrate this day in gratitude for the life and teachings of Ignatius of Loyola. From Patna to Budapest and from Lima to Quebec, Jesuits come together for food, fun, and festivities. In the Philippines there’s even a St. Ignatius Day Run, ranging from 3 to 10K, so everyone can participate.

It’s one of the biggest international holidays that no one’s ever heard of.

Here in the U.S. Jesuits come together in large groups and there’s usually some kind of a BBQ or a big bash. Communities pull out all the stops and the party brings together men from various apostolic works for a night of fun relaxation. We remember distant friends and catch up on our works around the world. Some communities organize a special appetizer and drinks event and usually frugal gourmets go ahead and splurge on top shelf everything.

What’s so special about the 31st of July? It’s the day, back in 1556, when St. Ignatius died. By the year of his death the Society of Jesus was 16 years old and we were more than 1,000 men strong. We had 100 houses on 3 continents and had somehow established 35 schools all across Europe.

Our numbers and our works have obviously grown since the early days of the Jesuits. But the history of our brotherhood in the Lord goes back to the graces experienced by our brother Inigo and his bold response to the Spirit’s invitation in drawing men forward on a global mission to engage the entire world.