The Jesuits in Modern Britain: A Brief History
The Society of Jesus, commonly known as the Jesuits, has a long and storied history in Britain that dates back to the 16th century. Founded by St. Ignatius of Loyola in 1540, the Jesuits were initially a reform movement within the Catholic Church, seeking to reform the Church from within and spread the Gospel to a wider audience. Over the years, the Jesuits have played a significant role in shaping British history, education, and culture.
Early Years (1550s-1700s)
The first Jesuits arrived in England in the 1550s, during the reign of Queen Mary I (1553-1558), also known as Bloody Mary. The Tudor monarch had attempted to return England to Catholicism, leading to the persecution of Protestants. The Jesuits, who were known for their missionary work, were initially tolerated, but soon fell victim to the queen’s anti-Catholic policies. Many were executed, imprisoned, or forced into hiding.
During the reign of Queen Elizabeth I (1558-1603), the Jesuits were officially prohibited from operating in England. However, some Jesuits continued to live and work in hiding, often under assumed identities. One notable example is Saint Edmund Campion, an English Jesuit who was executed in 1581 for his involvement in the Gunpowder Plot to assassinate Queen Elizabeth.
The Restored Jesuit Presence (1700s-1800s)
After the Glorious Revolution of 1688, which saw the overthrow of King James II and the establishment of a new, Protestant government, the Jesuits were allowed to return to England. The son of a former Catholic martyr, Saint John Fisher, founded a Jesuit school in London in 1741, marking the beginning of a new era of Jesuit presence in Britain.
Throughout the 18th century, the Jesuits established a series of schools, colleges, and seminaries across the country. They also played a significant role in the Catholic Revival, which saw a renewed interest in Catholicism among the British population. One notable example is the Jesuit-funded and -run Greenwich Peninsula, which became a popular retreat for Catholics seeking spiritual guidance and solace.
Modern Era (1800s-2000s)
In the 19th and 20th centuries, the Jesuits continued to grow in numbers and influence. They established new institutions, such as universities and hospitals, and expanded their missionary work. The Jesuits were particularly active in the field of education, establishing prestigious institutions like Wimbledon College (1840) and Heythrop College (1862).
Today, the Jesuits in Britain are part of the Jesuit Europe Society, which comprises over 400 Jesuits across the UK, Ireland, and Malta. The society is committed to social justice, education, and spiritual guidance, drawing inspiration from the Society of Jesus’s founding principles of reconciliation, discernment, and prophetic witness.
Key Notable Jesuits in British History
- St. Edmund Campion (1540-1581): A martyred English Jesuit who attempted to assassinate Queen Elizabeth I and was executed for treason.
- Saint John Fisher (1565-1640): A prominent English Jesuit who founded a school in London and played a key role in the Catholic Revival.
- Richard Casey (1847-1914): An Irish Jesuit who served as a naval chaplain and was later awarded the St George Cross for his heroism in World War I.
Conclusion
The Jesuits have left a lasting mark on British history, from their early days of persecution to their present-day commitment to social justice and education. Through their unwavering dedication to their faith and values, the Jesuits have continued to shape the fabric of British society, inspiring countless individuals and institutions. As we look to the future, the Jesuits in Britain remain a vital part of the country’s cultural and spiritual heritage, spreading the message of love and redemption to a world in need.
#Jesuits #Modern #Britain #History
