Today, the Church honors Saint Ignatius of Loyola, a former soldier who became a soldier for Christ. As the founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), Ignatius emphasized deep spiritual formation, discernment, and education as paths to holiness.
His legacy lives on through the Jesuits’ global mission of service, justice, and evangelization. Let us draw inspiration from his spiritual discipline and unwavering love for God.
Prayer of the Day
Prayer for Spiritual Generosity by St. Ignatius of Loyola
Lord, teach me to be generous.
Teach me to serve You as You deserve,
To give and not to count the cost,
To fight and not to heed the wounds,
To toil and not to seek for rest,
To labor and not to ask for reward,
Save that of knowing that I do Your will.Amen.
Mass Readings of the Day
First Reading: Exodus 40:16–21, 34–38
Moses sets up the tabernacle and the cloud of the Lord’s glory rests upon it. The Israelites follow the cloud on their journey.
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 84:3, 4, 5–6a, 8a, 11
“How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord, mighty God!”
Gospel: Matthew 13:47–53
The parable of the net teaches us about the final judgment, where the righteous will be separated from the wicked.
Saint of the Day — Saint Ignatius of Loyola (1491–1556)
Patron Saint of: Retreats, Soldiers, Educators, Jesuits
Feast Day: July 31
5 Interesting Facts About Saint Ignatius of Loyola
- He was a soldier before his conversion and had a dramatic spiritual awakening after a battlefield injury.
- His famous book, The Spiritual Exercises, has guided millions in deep prayer and discernment.
- He founded the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) in 1540 to defend and spread the faith.
- Ignatius insisted on obedience to the Pope as a hallmark of Jesuit identity.
- He was canonized in 1622 along with Saint Francis Xavier and Saint Teresa of Ávila.
