This memorial is the 500th anniversary of Ignatius’ injury during the battle at Pamplona, on May 20, 1521, when he was fighting to protect the fortress of Pamplona from the French soldiers. He was seriously injured when a cannonball shattered his leg. That injury took many months to heal; and it was during that time that Ignatius was changed, that he had his conversion, that is to say, he changed from being a daring soldier to becoming a saint. This year, the Society of Jesus also remembers the 400th anniversary of the canonization of Ignatius and Francis Xavier, which will be celebrated on March 12, 2022.
"To See All Things New in Christ"
The Jesuits hope that many people will be encouraged by the example of Ignatius and his interior struggle (discernment of spirits). His experience led him to his conversion and to his closeness with the Lord. This closeness to the Lord enabled Ignatius to find God in all things. And to see all things new in Christ.
