His conversion story is known to many and continues to speak to people of all faiths and none. Ultimately, Ignatius shows us what it means to change one’s mind, and to turn one’s life around.
It is 500 years since Ignatius began his conversion and over the course of The Ignatian Year, we will invite everyone to go on their own spiritual journey.
The Ignatian Year kicks off with a Novena (devotional prayer) which is a great way for Christians of all denominations to enter into a deeper communion with Christ, and with each other.
The first Novena centres on a play, Ignatius: The Knight Who Fell To His Knees. The play is written and performed by Jesuits and can be viewed on our YouTube channel here.
Other Novena days will follow, with short videos from each of the Jesuit parishes. Check our website and social media channels for these.
We have also chosen the prayer Anima Christi to pray for an ongoing change of heart. You can download a prayer card for this below.
Please note, the pandemic has prevented the usual regional masses for the Feast of St Ignatius from taking place. Here are some confirmed events – subject to government guidelines:
• Sacred Heart, Edinburgh: Garden Party on 31st July at 3.00pm in the local convent grounds followed by 6.30 Mass.
• Immaculate Conception, Farm Street: Sung Mass followed by a reception for the alumni of Jesuit schools, 6.00pm, Friday 30th July.
• St Aloysius, Glasgow: Festive Mass at 12.15pm.
• St Francis Xavier, Liverpool: 12.00 noon Mass on 31st followed by bring-your-own picnic.
• St Wilfrid’s, Preston: 12.15pm Sung Mass on 31st followed by an outdoor buffet lunch.
• St Anselm’s, Southall: 10.00am Festive Mass.
• St Ignatius, Stamford Hill: Because of ongoing Covid concerns there is a reception for Jesuits on Saturday, but not for others attendoing the Mass.
• St Peter’s, Stonyhurst: 11.00am Mass in St Peter's followed by the parish AGM and garden party in the presbytery garden.
• Polish Jesuits, Walm Lane: Special Mass for the feast.
