The Jesuits made themselves available for whatever tasks the Pope sat before them, willingly travelling to wherever they were needed. Thus, it is not surprising that much of Jesuit history takes place far from Rome, Spain or Paris. The Jesuit order grew rapidly after its foundation in 1540 and by the end of Ignatius' lifetime, was over one thousand members strong.
The first Jesuits provided not only a new path to spirituality in the form of Ignatian meditations, but also a strong doctrine of obedience to the church. This doctrine would serve the Catholic church well in centuries to come. The Jesuits founded many schools and colleges, and are perhaps best known as educators. St. Ignatius himself cared passionately about teaching, and it is clear that he would be pleased to know that his order is known for teaching.
Some of the founding members of the Jesuit order were among the Pope's theologians at the Council of Trent, and served to help in the gradual process of creating anew the Catholic church after the turmoil of the Protestant reformation.
The Jesuits also served in the New World, particularly in the areas controlled by Spain. As is widely accepted now, the early years of Spanish control in South and Central America were particularly bloody. By and large, religious orders, including the Jesuits, opposed the violence and brutality of the political entity in the New World.
The Jesuits also played an important role in missionary efforts in both Japan and China. The bibliography linked below provides sources for more information.
For a *very* substantial bibliography on St. Ignatius & the Jesuit order, please see http://camellia.shc.edu/theology/Ignatiu...
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