The Society of Jesus Trusts

The Society of Jesus in Great Britain is governed by the Constitutions of the Society and its affairs are also regulated by Canon Law.  The principal assets of the Society in Great Britain are held in charitable trusts (Reg. No's 230165, 230166, 803659).  These trusts are governed by laws applicable to Charities in England and Wales.

The principal aims and activities of the trusts, illustrated in other pages of this website, include:

  Advancement or maintenance of the Catholic faith in Great Britain and overseas

  Ecumenism and inter-faith dialogue as an integral part of the Catholic mission

  Provision, maintenance and conduct of churches, colleges and halls of study

  The giving of retreats and maintenance of retreat houses to promote spiritual development

  Education of young people and adults

  Education of clergy and members of the Society of Jesus

  Relief of poverty

  Care for aged members of the Society of Jesus

To enable the Society to fulfil its mission, the Constitutions provide that its funds may be built up to promote and endow its colleges and other works.  Permanent endowment, however, is not allowed to its religious communities.  Members of the Society covenant any income they receive to the trusts.  All salaries, pensions, royalties, personal legacies etc. are therefore used for the works of the trusts.  The cost of keeping the members is an expense to be met by the trusts.

Further details of the Society of Jesus trusts can be viewed at the Charity Commission's website:
 www.charitycommission.gov.uk