From the beginning the Jesuits put themselves at the service of the Pope to go wherever he might want to send them. In the century of the Protestant Reformation this inevitably brought them to work in countries ruled by Protestant governments. Many were arrested and executed. Blessed Dominic Collins, a Jesuit brother was martyred in Youghal in 1601.

Everywhere the Jesuits went they set up schools. In the 17th and 18th centuries they became known as the "Educators of Europe". In Ireland at this time they were obliged to live very much in the background, operating schools in side streets and remote country areas. With the end of the Penal Laws they entered openly into the area of secondary education. When Father Peter Kenney SJ, led the Jesuits back to Ireland in 1814 after the Suppression of the Society (1773 - 1814) his first action was to open a new school at Clongowes. Later, with the success of their college on St. Stephen's Green in Dublin, the Jesuits helped to establish the National University of Ireland. In the 19th century and the early part of the 20th century the Order was associated with training Catholics to take on a leadership role in the emerging independent Ireland.

Promotion of Justice

True to the spirit of Vatican II and recent congregations or world gatherings of the whole Society, Irish Jesuits have committed themselves to the promotion of justice which the Christian faith demands. Today Jesuits are still involved in education; they serve in parishes, in counselling, preaching and giving retreats. Jesuits work to promote faith and justice in the area of industrial relations, in community development and in providing centres for homeless boys and ineducation. Across the world the variety of work carried out by Jesuits is almost limitless.

A Great Challenge

The Society of Jesus has always sought to adapt to new needs and to make use of all the talents of its members. The life is demanding but offers a wide range of opportunities. It combines high ideals and spiritual depth with a sense of purpose and the bond of companionship. It caters for a blend of abilities. Behind every outstanding scholar or publicist there are ten unassuming men quietly carrying forward the work of the gospel to God's greater glory.