Jesuit Dictionary: Peter Schineller, SJ
Jesuit Dictionary: Peter Schineller, SJ
Dictionary
items listed are not specifically Jesuit, used only
by Jesuits, but are part of the larger Catholic
tradition. But they have found frequent usage in
the Society.
Peter Schineller, SJ
For whom is this helpful? It can help as one is
reading a book about Jesuits or by a Jesuit, and
one runs into a strange word or phrase. It can
also be helpful to young Jesuits as they hear of
the traditions of the “older fathers.” It can be of
help to our increasing number of lay colleagues
or lay collaborators, as we introduce them to our
way of proceeding and our spirituality.
Surely, there are many items omitted, and surely,
some could be expanded, modified or improved. The
compiler is open to suggestions and corrections.
A
A History of Philosophy. By Frederick Copleston, SJ. Nine volumes hardback or 17 volumes in
paperback that was widely used. The first volume, entitled Greece and Rome, appeared in 1946.
“A sinner, yet called to be a companion of Jesus as Ignatius was…” This description of the Jesuit, is
found in General Congregation 32, Decree 2: “Declaration: Jesuits Today.”
Account of conscience or manifestation of conscience. An annual conversation between the Jesuit and
his Superior. It helped the superior to discern the best mission or ministry for the Jesuit.
Acta Romana Societatis Jesu. Publication begun in 1910 containing official letters, decrees, events
of the Society, and documents from the Vatican to the Society. Documents from the Vatican Curia
and the Jesuit Curia.
Acta Sanctorum. 73 elephant-folio volumes, containing critical lives of saints. It has been published
by the Bollandists, a group of Jesuits and laity in Belgium. First volume was published in 1643 and
it continues today.
Ad audiendas or ad auds. An oral exam given to one training to be ordained a priest. It affirms that
the person has sufficient knowledge to be able to hear confessions. Thee exam usually consists of
case studies, of practical cases.
Ad grad. Exam given at the end of the study of theology. It partially determines which grade one will
be advanced to. That is, if one is a Jesuit of three vows, or one professed of the four vows.
Ad usum nostrorum. Notice inside a book or pamphlet that this is intended only for Jesuits (“for ours
only” - and not intended for externs). Also put as ád usum privatum, (for private circulation).
Admonitiones. Admonitions, indicating advice given to another novice or scholastic. One was
assigned to give an admonition to another when the signal was given at a certain time of the day, in
writing or verbally. The one giving the admonition is called the admonitor.
Aeronautics. Fr. Francis Lana, SJ. (Line) explained “how to construct birds which will fly through the
air.” Alas, they didn’t fly! He lived from 1595-1654 and has been called the Father of Aeronautics.
Age quod agis. Do what you are doing. This was instilled in Jesuit schools. Focus upon, concentrate
your energy on doing what you are doing. We might say today, be careful of multitasking. Or “qui
fecit nimis, fecit nihil.” The one who tries to do too much does nothing.
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Agere contra. To go or act against. Jesuits are frequently advised to do this – for example, eat more
rather than less of a particular food you don’t like. Or eat less, if you do like it. To go against the
grain.
AJCU. The Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities was founded in July 1970 as a national
organization to serve the 28 Jesuit colleges and universities in the United States. The Association
serves as a facilitator for various cooperative initiatives such as fostering Jesuit, Catholic identity
and institutional and international collaboration, educating for a faith that does justice, supporting
leadership initiatives, and developing a distance education network called JesuitNET.
Alexander de Rhodes. A French Jesuit missionary to Vietnam (1591-1660) who wrote a grammar
and lexicon of the Vietnamese language and created a system for writing the Vietnamese language
with Roman letters, a system still used today.
Alumni of Jesuit Education. Included would be Rousseau, Moliere, Voltaire, Alfred Hitchcock, James
Joyce, Descartes, Arthur Conan Doyle, Fidel Castro, and President Bill Clinton among others.
A.M.D.G. Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam. For the Greater Glory of God. This has become the unofficial
motto of the Society. The phrase “greater glory” occurs over a hundred times in the Constitutions.
America Magazine. ‘The National Catholic Weekly’ celebrated its 100th Anniversary in April 2009. It
now has an online edition. www.americamagazine.org.
Ancieta, Jose de, Blessed (1534-97). He is called the “Apostle of Brazil” and “Father of Brazilian
Literature.”
Angel, archangel. Second year novices appointed to welcome and guide the incoming class of first
year novices.
Anima Christi. Soul of Christ (be my sanctification, etc) Prayer used and praised by St. Ignatius, and
placed as a prelude to the book of the Spiritual Exercises.
Annotation. Explanatory notes or introductory observations, found at the beginning of the Exercises,
Nos. 1-20. These advise and guide the retreat director in his encounters with the retreatant.
Annual letters. Major superiors and other leaders are normally asked to send an official annual letter
to Fr. General on a specific topic he seeks information on.
Anonymous Christian. A phrase used by Karl Rahner to describe a non-Christian who is supported,
touched by the hidden grace of God and lives a good life and is on the way to salvation.
Apostleship of Prayer. A pious association led by Jesuits, which emphasizes the Daily or Morning
Offering, and devotion to the Heart of Christ.
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Application of the Senses. In the Exercises, one repeats the prayer material by reflecting on each of
the five senses and applying them to the material at hand, normally some event of the life of Christ.
It first appears in the Exercises in a meditation on hell (Nos. 65-70)
Arca. Trust funds of a Jesuit province set aside for formation (seminaries), retirement, foundation,
and apostolic works.
Archivum Historicum Societatis Jesu. A periodical that began in 1932, overseen by the Historical
Institute of the Society which is based in Rome.
Arrupe Month. A month of study and reflection, including an eight day retreat for a group of Jesuits
who are near to their priestly ordination.
Art of Worldly Wisdom, the. Famous or infamous book by Baltasar Gracian (1601-58). It consists of 300
aphorisms or practical proposals for success, including these: “Use human means as if there were
no divine ones, and divine as if there were no human ones. A masterly rule: it needs no Comment.”
“A wise man gets more use from his enemies than a fool from his friends.” “Friendship doubles the
good and divides the bad.” “Find out each man’s thumbscrew.” “All are idolaters, Skill consists in
knowing these idols , know another persons motives.., their ruling passion, and you got him.”
Ascetory. The study hall in the old novitiates. A word not found in Websters, even if the word
‘refectory’ is.
Assistants (to the General). Advisors who represent a geographical area (African Assistancy), or
possibly represent an area of Jesuit life such as formation.
Attachments. Inordinate attachments. The purpose of the Spiritual Exercises is to free the soul of such
inordinate attachments, such un-free, addictive behavior, and then seek and find the will of God
(No. 1).
Aula. Latin for a hall, a gathering place for large for meetings.
Autobiography of St. Ignatius. Also called Memoirs, or A Pilgrim’s Testament, or A Pilgrim’s Journey.
Dictated by Ignatius to Luis Goncalves da Camara in Rome in 1553 and 1555. It presents Ignatius’
own telling of the story of his life up to 1538.
Automobile. Fr. Ferdinand Verbiest, a Flemish missionary in China, designed a two foot long toy auto,
steam powered, for the Emperor of China, in the 1670’s. We do not know if it was ever built.
Availability, disponsibilite. An attitude expected of the Jesuit, namely ready to move, to go where
needed. Cf. a letter of Fr. General Arrupe on this apostolic availability. Some hold that the part of the
Constitutions (308) which says that the vocation of the Jesuit “is to travel…” is the best kept section
of the Constitutions.
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B
Baghdad College and Al-Hikma University. From 1932-69, Jesuits in Baghdad started and ran two
institutions. In 1969 the 61 Jesuits running them were forced to leave.
Bands. A group of three novices or scholastics, assigned by the leader, the manuductor or beadle, to
walk together and converse during the time of recreation.
Beadle. Bidellus in Latin. The leader assigned by the teacher or superior in a classroom or over a
group of Jesuits, such as Juniors.
Berchman’s Band. A group or band of six Jesuit novices formed on the feast of St. John Berchmans
(November 26) who pledge to pray for each other regularly throughout life and then offer Masses for the
repose of their soul when a member of the band dies.
Bihlerism. Expressions, malapropisms, used by Fr. Hugo Bihler, who taught anthropology and
experimental psychology at the Jesuit philosophate. Two examples: “The fact that monkeys have
hands, should give us pause (paws!).” “If Darwin were alive today, he’d turn over in his grave.”
Biretta. A black cap or hat, with three corners, worn only by those with vows. A stiff, square hat
with three ridges on top worn by clerics in church and on other occasions.
Black Pope. A term sometimes given to the Superior General of the Jesuits because he is chosen for
life (like the pope) and customarily wears a black habit or soutane. This was first applied to Fr. General
Roothaan because of his power or influence with the Pope of his day.
Blind obedience. In a Letter of St. Ignatius to the Jesuits in Rome 24 August, 1550. “In this
way, obedience should be blind and prompt.” This is modified in other writings to include more
consultation, dialogue and freedom of conscience.
Bollandists. The Society of Bollandists are a group of Belgian Jesuits and colleagues in Brussels,
engaged in critical, historical research and publications on the lives of saints. See Acta Sanctorum.
Bona Mors Confraternity. An early traditional society run by Jesuits to pray for, visit, instruct and
prepare people for dying and death.
Break Day. A day of change, relaxation during the long, 30 day retreat. It occurs three times, between
the four weeks of the Exercises. In our day, the novices played soccer and this was the only time we
did so. The fact and reality of the first break day was normally kept as one of the secundi secrets.
“Burning Babe, the.” A famous Christmas poem by St. Robert Southwell (1561-95)
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C
Call of the King. And The Kingdom of Christ. In the Spiritual Exercises, Nos. 91-100. A key meditation
between the first and second week of the Exercises. A constant theme of Jesuit spirituality. Christ calls
us to follow him and his way under the banner or standard of the cross.
Camellia. The flower is so named after the Jesuit Moravian brother in Manila, Georg Joseph Kamel,
SJ. A missionary and a botanist.
Campion’s Brag. Or Challenge to the Privy Council. A manifesto or declaration of St. Edmund
Campion (1540-81) expressing his religious conviction and defense of the faith. He wrote this while
under arrest. “The expense is reckoned, the enterprise is begun; it is of God, it cannot be withstood.
So the Faith was planted: so it must be restored.”
Candidacy. The term to describe the first week or so at the novitiate for the new men who are
called “candidates.”
Canisius. Name of the Jesuit saint, St. Peter Canisius (1521-97) who wrote a famous catechism. This
catechism was used so much one word for catechism in German became ‘canisius’. “To know one’s
Canisius and to know the Catholic Doctrine were synonyms in popular parlance” (Pope Leo XIII). St.
Robert Bellarmine also wrote a famous catechism, and 500 other Jesuits wrote catechisms. Jesuits were
once called, “a society of catechists.”
Cardinals, Jesuit. Francisco de Toledo was the first Jesuit so named, in 1593. Up to Cardinal Avery Dulles
in the year 2000 there have been 38 Jesuit cardinals and about 338 bishops.
Cardoner, vision at. At the river Cardoner in 1522 Ignatius had his life-altering insight or vision, more
significant for him than all his other experiences of God. It was while here that the ideas for what are now
known as the Spiritual Exercises began to take shape.
Casus conscientiae. Case of conscience. Such cases are presented in classes on moral theology.
They are used in training and examining Jesuits who will hear confessions. In Jesuit communities,
there were evenings when such cases were discussed. Hodie (nocte) signo dato, convenient omnes
sacerdotes (et theologi) in locum consuetum pro collatione casus moralis et liturgici. This evening,
when the bell is rung, all priests (and theologians) will gather in the usual place for discussion of a case
concerning morals or liturgy.
Catalogus. (Latin, accent on second syllable) The directory of a province, listing the members, their
assignments, etc. It is updated annually. It can be in Latin or in one of the three ‘official’ languages of the
Society, namely English, Spanish or French.
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Catena. Chain. A traditional instrument of penance worn for a few hours in the morning twice a
week around the thigh against the skin. At times they would fall off, causing a bit of embarrassment.
Catherine the Great. The Empress of Russia who forbade the publication of the Brief of Suppression.
Thus she is a Protectoress of the Society. She died in 1796.
Catherine of Alexandria, St. Traditional patron of Jesuit scholastics studying philosophy. Probably
because she won a debate over pagan philosophers. Her feast is 25 November.
Celebret. The Latin word, means “he may celebrate.” It is a written document issued by a bishop or
other superior stating that the bearer, a priest is in good standing and therefore eligible to celebrate
Mass or perform other priestly functions.
CG 32. The 32nd General Congregation of the Jesuits, held in 1975. It issued many decrees, including
Decree 4 of CG 32, “Our Mission Today: The Service of faith and the Promotion of Justice.” Faith
linked to justice must be a hallmark of all Jesuit ministries. This was a challenge issued to Jesuit
institutions, missions, and individuals.
Chapter. “An exercise of fraternal correction made in public,” according to the novitiate handbook. A
weekly meeting where novices publicly mention a fault or two they have noticed in a brother novice
as that novice kneels before the group. Sometimes it was called lapidatio meaning the time to throw
stones at one another.
Chinese Rites Controversy. Malabar Rites Controversy. Inculturation was a key to evangelization
in India and China. A debate during the late 17th and first half of 18thbcentury concerning the
compatibility of certain Chinese practices with Christianity. Three main points were the correct name
of God, the veneration of Confucius and the veneration of ancestors. The Jesuits were in favor of
allowing the Chinese Christians take part in those ceremonies. Dominicans thought that they were
“idolatrous”. The Chinese Rites were forbidden by Clement XI in 1715. As a reaction, emperor Kangxi
banned Christian missionaries (1721). Pius XI allowed the veneration of ancestors in 1935.
Civilta Cattolica. Catholic Civilization. Bi-monthly periodical run by the Jesuits in Rome that started in
1849-50. It is previewed and approved before publication by the Vatican Secretary of State.
Clavius, Christopher. A German Jesuit, called “the modern Euclid” and the chief architect of the reform
of the calendar of 1582 which produced the Gregorian calendar to replace the Julian calendar. A large
crater on moon is named after him. He is one of 35 Jesuits with moon craters named after them.
CLC / Sodality / confraternity. Christian Life Community. The Christian Life Community is an
international association of lay Christians who have adopted an Ignatian model of spiritual life. The
‘Community’ is present in almost sixty countries. It has has its origins in the World Federation of
Marian Congregations which was founded in 1563, and adopted its current name in 1967.
Coadjutor Brother. A member of the Society of Jesus who pronounces three vows. Now they are
more usually called “formed brothers.” Their vocation is to Jesuit community and mission, but not to
ordained priesthood.
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Coena. The name for the lighter meal, as contrasted with prandium the heavier meal.
Colloquy. Conversation. A word used by Ignatius in the Spiritual Exercises, normally indicating
prayerful conversation between the retreatant and God or a saint or a character in a gospel story. Cf.
Exercises No. 54: “The colloquy is made by speaking exactly as one friend speaks to another….”
Common life. Jesuits live in community, sharing in a common life. In a famous quote that many agree
with, St. John Berchmans called common life “my greatest penance.” His life in Jesuit community
afforded many opportunities for penance or mortification.
Common stock. Clothing or other items that you could take and use as you needed. For example, a
large bin of socks. You reached in and picked out two.
Company Magazine. A national Jesuit quarterly magazine started in 1983 and its final issues was Fall
2010. It was directed by the Jesuit Conference in Washington, DC.
Company of Jesus. The Spanish language calls us ‘company’. (Compañia de Jesús German and
English stress ‘society’ (Gesellschaft Jesu). Company is a good description of the Society of Jesus,
meaning literally those who share bread (com-panis).
Composition of Place. The first prelude to meditations in the Exercises. It is a mental representation
of the place, whereby we imagine a gospel scene (Spiritual Exercises, No 47) It points to the
centrality and importance of the imagination in the spirituality and theology of St. Ignatius. This carries
over to the meditation on hell where we are to see in imagination the length, breadth and depth of
hell (No. 65).
Consciousness Examen. Widely used and referred to essay by Fr. George Aschenbrenner, in Review
for Religious, January 1972. The focus is not so much on external actions, but on interior movements,
on consciousness and the heart.
Consolation – desolation. Key terms in the Rules for Discernment of Spirits. See Nos. 316 and 317
for description of their meaning. Consolation is an interior movement that involves an increase of
faith, hope and love, and interior joy. Desolation is the opposite of consolation and indicates turmoil,
disquiet, separation from God.
Constitutions. The labor of the mature years of Ignatius for his followers. It explains how to gather,
train, form, incorporate, and send forth members of the Society of Jesus as apostles, laborers in the
Lord’s vineyard. Composed of 10 Parts, and several hundred pages in length, it embodies a spiritual
vision and yet is always mindful of the concrete and practical.
Consueta ministeria. A phrase to point to the customary ministries of the Jesuits which would include
preaching, teaching, catechetical instruction, hearing confessions, and directing retreats.
Consultors. A system whereby normally four are appointed to be advisors to a provincial or a rector/
superior. They have some minimal power and mainly advise. Their meeting is called a “consultation”
or “consult.”
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Contemplation to Attain the Love of God. The final contemplation of the Spiritual Exercises (Nos. 230-
37) leads one to seek, find, and serve God in all things. It includes the famous prayer of St. Ignatius,
the Sume et Suscipe (Take, Lord, and Receive).
Contemplatives in Action. Found in a description of Ignatius by Jerome Nadal, and now the ideal for
every Jesuit - to combine, integrate the values of the contemplative and active lives. God must be
sought, found, and served in all things, in all activities.
Conversation. Ignatius emphasized the art and grace of conversation as an ingredient of all Jesuit life
and ministry. He practiced this in his own life, he expects it of every Jesuit (Constitutions, No. 814)
and adds that it must be among the major qualities possessed by Fr. General (No. 729).
Corn bread and stew. (panem aureum) Famed in the American Assistancy for breakfast 2-3 days a week.
Much appreciated in winter time, when covered with maple syrup or honey. Cf. Rick Curry, The Secrets
of Jesuit Breadmaking. There are variations in the recipe, and whether it was lamb or beef stew.
Corollary. A statement, thesis, or position that follows from a previous statement or is implied,
contained in it.
“Corporation of the Catholic Gentlemen of Maryland.” A group organized and incorporated during
the time of the Suppression that was entrusted with land, etc. of Georgetown. They were also the
Corporation of the Roman Catholic Clergymen. “The Roman Catholic Gentlemen of Maryland” is the
official corporate title of the Maryland Province.
Cristo Rey Network. A network of college preparatory schools where students participate in a
Corporate Work Study program which helps finance their education. The first Cristo Rey school
started in Pilsen, Chicago in 1996.
Culpa. Latin word for fault or defect. In the crowded dining room one accuses oneself of a fault or had a
fault pointed out by another such as the Father Minister. Some became creative, for example, “I accuse
myself of making a fool of myself by imitating superiors” (Songster??) The full formula to declare one’s
fault is this: “Reverend Fathers and dear Brothers in Christ, I say to you my culpa for all my faults and
negligences in the observation of our holy rule and especially for …..; and for the same holy obedience
has imposed upon me the slight penance of declaring to you my fault and …. (mention one particular
penance)… First culpa “for being caught breaking silence near the bulletin board.” But the next day,
corrected version: “for breaking silence near the bulletin board.”
Cura animarum. Care or curacy of souls. Phrase to describe the ministry of priests, and hence of
Jesuits. We note that Jesuits were not to take up benficed (with a salary) curacy of souls lest it tie
us down and limit our freedom. It includes or means care for the whole person.
Cura personalis. Personal care, respect. love of the teacher for the student; the retreat director for the
retreatant; the superior of the community to the members of the community. Help from person to
person, so that God can meet that person. See the essay of Fr. Kolvenbach on this, CIS 114.
Curia. The headquarters or central office of a province or in Rome, the headquarters of Father General.
Custom Book of the American Assistancy. A manual in Latin, now in English, with various editions
that gives detailed instructions on daily order, feasts, meals, ways of proceeding. The latest edition
seems to be 1960.
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D
De Profundis. Psalm 130, one of the seven penitential psalms. It is part of night prayer, litanies
formerly recited in the chapel in common. It is also recited when the bell wrings to indicate that a
Jesuit in the house has died.
De More. According to custom. This signifies a day with “regular order” as contrasted with holiday or
a day with a special order of events.
De universa. or De U. De universa philosophia. Ways to refer to the oral exam at the end of the study
of philosophy. Traditionally the exam was conducted in Latin.
Defects. Faults one sees in oneself, or others point to. See culpa.
Delate. Normally one is delated to Rome, meaning a report sent to the Vatican or someone in Rome,
usually criticizing some theologian or writer because of alleged error or heresy in his or her writings.
Deliberations of 1539. Deliberatio primorum Patrum. From March to June 1539 the first companions
and Ignatius met in Rome, made decisions, and produced a document that led to the founding of the
Society of Jesus. Cf. Studies in the Spirituality of Jesuits. June 1974.
“Deo Gratias.” And response: “Semper Deo Gratias et Mariae.”- (“Thanks be to God”; and “Always thanks
to God and to Mary.”) This was said by Fr. Rector at the end of the table reading in the dining hall to
indicate that all can talk rather than continue the reading and enjoy a silent meal.
Desire. “id quod volo.” That which I am seeking. A key petition in the Spiritual Exercises (No. 48)
I ask for what I desire and I focus on the particular grace I am seeking. cf. Kinerk in Studies in the
Spirituality of Jesuits, November 1984 “Eliciting Great Desires,” Ignatius was a man of great desires,
and believed that our deepest and truest desires came from God. He adds that even if we do not
have the desire, we should ask for the desire to have the desire (# 102).
De Smet, Peter John. (1801-1873) Belgian Jesuit missionary to the mid-West of America, considered a
founder by the Mormons as he helped them, and pointed them to Salt Lake City. An Advocate of the
first Americans, he also worked for the US government.
Devotio. A key ingredient in the spirituality of Ignatius, the ability to find God in all things and actions
and all times. Cf. Michael Buckley, CIS 60 “Sempre Crescendo in Devotione.”
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Devotional vows. Private vows one might take (with permission) after one year of novitiate, and thus
one year before the official Jesuit pronouncing of first vows.
Dimissi. Dismissed. Term referring to one who has left the Society of Jesus. Dismissal from the
Society can be automatic or necessary (these are both non-petens – not petitioned), or it can be
petitioned (petens) by the one seeking dismissal.
Dimissorial letter. An official letter from a Provincial to a bishop affirming that x is qualified and can
be ordained to the priesthood. Such letters testify that the subject has all the qualities demanded
by canon law for the reception of the order in question, and request the bishop to whom they are
addressed to ordain him. (see Canon 1015).
Directed retreat. A one on one retreat (one director and one retreatant) contrasted with group retreat
where conferences are given to a group of retreatants.
Discernment. Discernment of spirits. Listening, attending to the inner movements in a person. Part of
the process in making choices and finding the will of God. This can be a choice between good and
evil or between two goods. In the Exercises there are two sets of rules for discerning spirits (Nos.
313-336).
Discipline. Taking the discipline or “the flag.” (flagellum) A traditional instruments of penance, a whip
made of rope with which one hits oneself. The Rules for Juniors state that “instruments of penance
should be kept concealed” under one’s pillow in the dormitory. It was used twice a week.
Discreta caritas. Discreet charity or discretion. A phrase used often by Ignatius to emphasize
moderation, and avoid extremes of rigor and of laxity. An alliance between love and reason, freedom
and regulation.
Do it Right! A Study Guide. A booklet written by Paul Reed, SJ. and given to freshmen at Jesuit
secondary schools in the 1950s. It was published in 1951.
Dominus ac Redemptor. The brief promulgated by Pope Clement XIV suppressing the Society in 1773.
Double of the First Class. Traditional liturgical instruction for one type or level of feast to be celebrated.
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E
Effusio ad exteriora. The fault or tendency to “lose oneself in externals,” or in trivia. A sign of a lax
religious.
Election. Used by Ignatius for making choices or decisions. Not a political term.
Eloquentia perfecta. Perfect eloquence. A key goal of Jesuit education, expected of Jesuits and their
students. It involves the ability to think (use one’s reason), to express your thoughts, and finally to
communicate them. It is stressed in the Ratio Studiorum.
English permissions. Occasional times during the year when Jesuits are allowed to write letters in
English rather than in Latin.
Epikeia. Dispensation from general norms. This principle provides for the uniqueness of the individual
situation in the face of a general prescription of the law. Thus allowing for exceptions. A Greek word
meaning reasonableness and designating a moral theory and practice, a mild interpretation of the mind
of a legislator who is prudently considered not to wish positive law to bind in certain circumstances.
Epitome. Epitome Instituti Societatis Iesu. A one volume book of the various key rules and ways of
proceeding for the Jesuits.
Ex aliunde. ‘from another place.’ This meant to give a student who has done poorly on an exam a
passing grade because of other work done or done ‘from another place.’
Examen. Examination of conscience. Found in the Spiritual Exercises, No. 43, and consisting of five
points, and taking perhaps 15 minutes.
1. Give thanks to God for favors received (of course, first you recall you are in presence of God).
2. Ask for the grace to know your sins and get rid of them.
3. Examine how you lived since the last examen, examining thoughts, words, deeds.
4. Ask for pardon for faults.
5. Resolve to amend with the grace of God.
(See also particular examen).
Examen beads. A way to mark, remember, count how many times in a day you failed to keep the
focus of your particular examen (e.g. cursing, anger) by pulling or shifting a bead. The beads were
fastened insight your habit/soutane. At the next examination of conscience, you check and see how
many you pulled.
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Exclaustration. Permission to live outside a Jesuit community for a specified length of time - not
more than three years.You remain a religious, and under a superior.
Exhortation. Domestic exhortation. A spiritual talk given perhaps by the Spiritual Father to the
community. It is announced at dinner: “This evening there will be an exhortation in the domestic
chapel at ….o’clock.”
Expect Dest. Expectans destinationem. Status of a Jesuit awaiting his next assignment.
Experiments. Also called ‘testing experiences.’ These six actions are found in the General Examen at
the beginning of the Constitutions No. 67ff. These are undergone by novices and by tertians.
1. Making the Spiritual Exercises for one month
2. Serve in a hospital for one month.
3. Spend one month on pilgrimage.
4. Work in the house on humble tasks.
5. Explain Christian doctrine to youths.
6. Preach and hear confessions in accord with one’s status.
Explicitate. A word created and used by Jesuits studying philosophy. It simply means to “explicate.”
Exposcit debitum. The second bull, issued by Pope Julius III, 21 July, 15550, which confirmed the first
F
approbation of the Society that had been given in the bull of 27 September 1540, entitled Regimini
Militantis Ecclesiae.
Externs. A word used by Jesuits to refer to outsiders, to non-Jesuits (everybody else!) as opposed to
“ours,” insiders or members of the Society of Jesus.
Faculties. Permission or license given by a religious superior for a priest to exercise his ministry, for
example to preach and hear confessions.
Fasti Breviores Societatis Jesu. “A Daily Record of Memorable Events in the History of the Society of Jesus.”
Published in English in London, 1910. It had a strong missionary tone and thrust as well as humor and
strange piety at times.
Father of modern atomic theory. Fr. Roger Boscovich (1711-87), a Croatian Jesuit polymath, is
sometimes called this as he hinted at a field theory approach to physics.
Final vows. By a Jesuit are solemn vows and normally taken after one is ordained, if one is a Jesuit priest.
It significes one’s final incorporation into the Society. One professes three or four vows, the fourth being a
vow of special obedience to the Pope which is not taken by all,
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Finding God in all things. Also seeking, serving, loving in all things. A characteristic of Ignatian
Spirituality whereby we seek and serve God in all aspects of our lives. Ignatius speaks more
frequently of seeking and serving God rather than finding God in all things.
First class Feast. Cf. the Custom Book for a list of such feasts (such as Christmas or the feast of St.
Ignatius) and for a suggested possible menu for such feasts.
First companions. The group of seven, namely Ignatius, Faber, Xavier, Simon Rodriguez, Lainez,
Salmeron, and Bobadilla. They pronounced their first vows at Montmartre on August 15, 1534. Three
more would be added in Paris, namely Codure, Broet and Jay.
First Principle and Foundation. Spiritual Exercises, No. 23 “Man is created to praise, reverence
and serve God our Lord, and by this means to save his soul….” Normally the first consideration,
meditation of one making an Ignatian retreat, urging us to see and judge everything in relation to God
and the salvation of our soul.
First Vows. Simple and perpetual vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience taken at the end of the
two years of novitiate.
Fishers of men, go fishing. An expression arising from the gospel where Jesus says to the first
apostles that “I will make you fishers of men” (Mark 1:17). It was used by Ignatius and the first
Jesuits when about to go out on mission, two by two, to talk or preach in the market place.
Formula of the Institute. The original charter of the Jesuit order. The First Formula of 1540. A brief
outline, it consisted of “five chapters” and became the basis of what the pope approved in approving
the foundation of the Society of Jesus.
Four weeks. First week, etc. The division of the Spiritual Exercises into four weeks, or four parts, but
not exactly weeks of seven days.
Fourth vow. After the three vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, some Jesuit priests pronounce
a fourth vow of special obedience to the Pope in regard to mission.
Friends in the Lord. “In the middle of January, there arrived here from Paris nine of my friends in the
Lord.” Ignatius writes this in a letter from Venice, in 1537, and it is seen as an expression of the
common life of the Jesuits.
Fugitivus. Fugitive. A Jesuit who is absent from community for a period of time, without permission
and is probably in big trouble regarding his vocation as a Jesuit.
Fusion. A special time when Jesuit juniors and novices, or those of different grades could meet and
talk and recreate.
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G
Garth. An enclosed garden area, for example at Loyola Seminary, Shrub Oak.
Gaudiosa. A special first class meal and feast, possibly for the Fathers, or the brothers. t means a
joyful (gaudiosa) feast or celebration.
General Congregation. The supreme governing and legislative body of the Jesuits. It meets not at
regular invervals, but only to elect the General and for extraordinary business. There have been 35 in
Jesuit history.
General Examen. The first part of the Constitutions. It contains a description of the Society of Jesus,
and the type of candidates we look for.
Gesu. The Mother Church, the main Jesuit church in Rome, where Ignatius and many Jesuit saints
are buried.
“Give me the child until age of seven, and I will give you the man.” A proverb not used by Ignatius but
sometimes applied to Jesuit education.
Glacier Priest. Fr. Bernard Hubbard (1888-1962), California Jesuit, called this for climbing the Austrian
Alps. He also wrote Mush, You Malemutes!
“Go in their door, come out yours.” See the letter of Ignatius, September 1541. He discusses the
strategy of how to win over a person by imitating the tactic of the enemy. “Thus we go in his door
and come out our own.”
“Go set the world on fire.” Ite inflammate omnia. Said to be the words of Ignatius as he sent Jesuits
forth on mission. It is found in the Scintilla of Ignatius for October 6.
Good Pope Marcellus. If conversation seemed to be going downhill, Ignatius would turn it around by
saying “Let’s talk about “good Pope Marcellus.” Marcellus was pope for only 22 days and favorable
to the Society.
Grades. One’s status or grade in the Society of Jesus. Thus Jesuits with three or four vows, or a
novice without vows. “Breaking grades” meant talking to one of another grade without permission.
Gratitude. The first point of the examen is to be grateful. According to Ignatius, its opposite,
ingratitude, is the most abominable of all sins and “the cause, principle and source of every sin and
evil.” See his letter of 18 March, 1542.
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Gratuity of ministries. We should not charge or accept pay for the ministries and works we perform.
This is the ideal of all ministries, including education/schools: See Luke 6:35 – “do good, and
lend, expecting nothing in return.” This is is to assure our liberty and overcome possible favoritism.
Cf. Constitutions No. 398. “Since it is so proper to our profession not to accept any temporal
remuneration for the spiritual ministries in which we employ ourselves according to our Institute to
aid our fellowmen…”
H
Gregorian University. (The Greg) One part of the consortium consisting of The Pontifical Gregorian
University, the Biblical Institute (1909), and the Oriental Institute (1917). The Gregorian, “The
University For all nations,” was founded in 1551 and its graduates include 16 popes, 23 saints, and
over 900 bishops living today.
Half-sheet. “Take out a half-sheet.” A technique in the Jesuit high school classroom – a short quiz on a
half-sheet several days each week.
Haustus. Latin word for a snack around 4 P.M. after outdoor games. You took this standing and
in silence. Or it could be a large haustus in the evening of a holiday. There are some websites for
Jesuitica that use that word, eg. Haustus.com
Heroic act. Declare that any indulgences that you gain should be applied to some soul in Purgatory,
and trust that God will take care of you when you die.
Holy Family. Fr. General Wladimir D. Ledochowski (1866-1942) has two sisters, One is a saint
(Ursula), and one is a blessed (Maria Teresa). But the cult for Fr. Wladimir does not seem to be
gathering strength. He wrote MANY letters, and the Jesuits increased from 16,940 in 27 provinces to
26,588 in 50 provinces during his reign which began in 1915.
Holy Innocent. The youngest novice in a particular year is dubbed this. The Feast of the Holy
Innocents on 28 December is a special feast for novices, including a first class feast. The holy
innocent is sometimes called the Benjamin of the group.
“Hodie Christus Natus Est.” A Latin Christmas hymn to open the midnight Mass on Christmas Day.
Posssibly also to awaken the first year novices at 11:30 PM. This was a surprise and a “secundi
secret.” You got up in time to make Midnight Mass.
Hoodlum Priest, The. Fr. Charles Dismas Clark, of St. Louis worked with ex-convicts. There was a
movie with that title about his work.
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House of Probation. A place for testing one’s vocation. The novitiate was the two year program of
initial formation, done at a house of probation.
House of St. Martha. Or the Casa Santa Marta a house or shelter in Rome, started by Ignatius, for
I
wayward women in 1543.
Humble gesture. To go on one’s knees and kiss the ground, floor as one begins prayer or begins the
day. Pope John Paul II did this on arriving in a new nation.
I.H.S. Abbreviation of the name of JESUS. The official Seal of the Society, used by Ignatius, often
with one star on the top, two stars below, and a crescent moon between the two stars. IHS: In
Greek, the first three letters of the name of Jesus — Iota, Eta, Sigma.
Ignatian Volunteer Corps. (IVC) Founded in 1995, the Ignatian Volunteer Corps (IVC) provides men and
women, most age 50 or better, opportunities to serve others and to transform lives. IVC matches the talents of
experienced Volunteers with the greatest social needs of our time.
Ignatius loved the big cities. Bernardus valles, colles Benedictus amavit, oppida Franciscus, magnas Ignatius
urbes. St. Bernard loved the valleys, St. Benedict the hills, St. Francis the towns, and St. Ignatius
the great cities. A Latin couplet ending with the note that Jesuits tend to work in the big cities,
following Ignatius.
Ignorantia vix credibilis. “Scarcely credible ignorance.” Said to be the lowest grade, a failing grade for
a Jesuit oral examination. The normal grades were “reached, surpassed, or did not reach mediocrity.”
Imitation of Christ. Important book written by Thomas Kempis, although Ignatiuis refers to the author
as Gerson. It is highly recommended in the Exercises, and admired by Ignatius. As novices we read
it almost daily. Some of it does not agree with Ignatian theology or spirituality, as it was sometimes
other-worldly, said little on ministry, and was biased against learning.
In medio stat virtus. Virtue stands in the mean or the middle. This encourages moderation rather than
extremism. In moral theology it is emphasized by Jesuits.
Incardination. The process of a religious priest, such as a Jesuit, becoming a member of, accepted
into a diocese, and thus subject in obedience to the local bishop.
Inculturation. The correct and entirely appropriate adaptation of the Catholic liturgy and institutions to
the culture, language, and customs of an indigenous or local people. Fr. Arrupe was one of the pioneers
in using and explaining this term. A letter of Arrupe on this topic was widely circulated and used.
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Indifferent. Indifferentes. This describes one who enters the Jesuits indifferent as to whether he will
become a Jesuit priest or Jesuit brother.
Indifferent. In the Spiritual Exercises (No. 23) the retreatant is to make himself or herself indifferent
to all created things. This means freed and detached, ready to move in the direction God indicates in
regard to various choices or decisions.
Informationes. An evaluation form on a person being considered for the mission,s for a new assignment,
for becoming a superior, ordained, or for special studies. It is normally filled out by one’s peers.
Inscape. Fr. Gerard Manley Hopkins (1844-89) British Jesuit and famous poet. He wrote “The Wreck
of the Deutschland,” and has a memorial stone in Poets’ Corner of Westminster Abbey. Inscape is a
concept he employed, derived from Duns Scotus that stresses the unique individuality of every object.
Instrumentum conjunctum cum Deo. An instrument joined/linked with God. The description of the
Jesuit at work. See the Constitutions No. 813.
“Interior law of charity and love which the Holy Spirit writes and engraves on hearts” (Constitutions, No. 134).
According to Ignatius, this law is more important than written laws and Constitutions, even if Ignatius
J
writes Constitutions which are about 300 pages long.
Itinerarium. A series of prayers recited when one or a group moves out of a house, or is sent to a
foreign mission. It begins with “In viam pacis,.” and includes praying the Benedictus.
Jesuit. A member of the Society of Jesus. Ignatius insisted on the name Society of Jesus (rather
than the name of any saint) as the name for group he and his companions formed.
Jesuits’ Bark. Also called Peruvian bark, or cinchona, now known as quinine. It is an anti-malerial
appreciated by the Jesuits and introduced by them into Europe.
Jesuit Conference. The Jesuit provinces of the United States are organized into a conference to
promote common goals and oversee international projects, with offices in Washington, DC.
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Jesuit Refugee Service. JRS. Begun by Fr. Arrupe in November 1980, after seeing the Vietnamese boat
refugees, Now in over 50 countries it is an international Catholic organization that aids refugees, forcibly
displaced peoples, and asylum seekers. JRS operates at national and regional levels. JRS has programs
in 51 countries. The main areas of work are in the field of Education, Emergency Assistance, Health and
Nutrition, Income-Generating Activities, and Social Services.
Jesuit Relations. Letters and documents of Jesuit missionaries from 1632 to 1673. Those from
America (New France) to Europe are gathered in 73 volumes, in French and English. A great resource
for anthropologists and historians.
Jesuit Volunteer Corps. JVC. In 1956, the first Jesuit volunteers began their service to the native people
of Alaska. This group expanded through the sponsorship of the Oregon Province of the Society of Jesus
to become JVC Northwest. Continual expansion led to and JV International in 1983.
Jesuit Yearbook. An annual book/magazine of essays, reports, addresses on Jesuits around the
globe. It was first issued in 1960, and is now issued several languages.
Jesuitesses. Members of the Institute of Mary, founded by Mary Ward, and basing their rule upon the
Jesuit rule.
John Courtney Murray, SJ. (1904-67) American priest and theologian. One of three Jesuits ever to
make the cover of Time magazine. The other two were Daniel Berrigan, and Pedro Arrupe. Murray
wrote We Hold These Truths and was instrumental in the Decree of Vatican II on Religious Freedom.
John LaFarge. An American Jesuit pioneer (1880-1963) on race relations and ecumenism. His
autobiography is entitled The Manner is Ordinary.
Journal, diary. The Spiritual Diary of St. Ignatius. Personal notes of St. Ignatius written in 1544 and
1545. They provide insight into his prayer and his method of deciding and writing on poverty for
inclusion in the Jesuit Constitutions.
JSEA. The Jesuit Secondary Education Association was founded in 1970 upon the dissolution of the
Jesuit Educational Association (JEA) in order to care for the particular needs of the Jesuit secondary school
apostolate in the United States. At the same time the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities
(AJCU) came into existence to serve the particular needs of Jesuit higher education. See Website.
Jug. Detention after school, in Jesuit secondary schools. It could be for being late or causing trouble.
The origin of the word is disputed or unknown. Students had to memorize, march or write for an hour
or two under the watchful eye of the Prefect of Discipline.
Juniorate. The period of study following novitiate, primarily devoted to classics and humanities. Now
called ‘collegiate studies.’ Those in it were called Juniors.
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K
L
Kino and Marquette. Two statues in the rotunda, the Statuary Hall, of the Capitol honoring these
Jesuit explorers and missionaries. Eusebio Kino represents the state of Arizona and Jacque
Marquette that of Wisconsin.
La Storta. A small chapel on the outskirts of Rome where Ignatius had a key vision (Feb. 23, 1544)
when the Father placed him (Ignatius) with his Son bearing the cross while Ignatius was journeying
to Rome. In one sense all Jesuits share in this vision. According to Nadal, God said to Ignatius “I will
be with you.”
Labor priest. Fr. Philip Carey (1907-89) of NY City. Director of the Xavier School of Industrial Relations,
and worked with labor unions and taught at the Labor School.
Laborandum. Work to be done in the novitiate. Usually outdoor work in the afternoon.
Laborers in the (Lord’s) Vineyard. The favorite phrase of St. Ignatius to describe the Jesuit on mission.
The Constitutions employ this image 15 times. Cf. Schineller Studies in the Spirituality of Jesuits,
September, 1999.
Lacrosse. A game played by native Americans and so named by Jesuits. It was called by Indians “the
Creator’s Game.” St. Jean Brebeuf, seeing Iroquois playing it in 1637 called it la crosse, possibly after
the bishop’s crozier.
Laicization: The process by which a man ordained to holy orders is relieved of the obligations of
orders and the ministry and is returned to the status of a lay person.
Laudetur Jesus Christus. In saecula saeculorum. Rising from sleep, the early morning greeting and
response.
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Laus Deo semper (Mariaeque) L.D.S. Praise to God Always (and to Mary). Sometimes this was used in
place of AMDG at the top or bottom of a paper.
Lavalette, Antoine de. The Lavalette Affair. Antoine de Lavalette (1708- 1767), was a French jesuit cler-
gyman Superior f the Martinique missions, whose bankruptcy led to the suppression of the Society
of Jesus in France.
Least Society, this. Minima Societas. The first sentence of the General Examen, thus the first sentence
of the Constitutions so describes the Society of Jesus as “this least congregation.”
Leave of absence. Permission granted by a provincial that a Jesuit may live for a specified period of
time outside of a house of the Society of Jesus. He still observes his vows. Maximum length is one
year and it is usually granted to help resolve a vocation crisis.
Liber Devotionum. A small prayer book given to novices. Various editions, beginning in 1923 in
Missouri Province contain Latin and English prayers. It was replaced by For Jesuits, edited by John
Hardon, SJ and Challenge:A Prayer Book, by John O’Malley, SJ.
Litanies. Traditionally were common prayers recited every night consisting of the Litanies of Loretto
M
and of the saints and varied prayers. This was replaced on Sunday by Compline and by Benediction.
Long Black Line. A familiar description or characterization of how Jesuits of old dressed the same and
did everything in line, in groups, and in silence, for example on the way to chapel or the dining room.
Magic lantern. Fr. Athanasius Kircher (1601-80), a German Jesuit and polymath (called the Master of
100 arts!) build the first image projector. Cecil B. deMille called him “the real pioneer of movies.”
Magis. The magis is a favored word and idea of Ignatius. We always look to do more, to be more, to
give more. For example, in the Exercises (No. 97) where we are “to make offerings of greater value
and of more importance.”
Magnificat. The prayer of praise, the hymn of Mary found in Luke 1:46-55. This was recited by those
in Jesuit formation on the eve of a holiday, to petition for good weather. It worked often but not
always.
Mandata. Command, or assignment, referring most often to clean up jobs after noon and evening
meals in Jesuit houses of formation.
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Maher, Zacchaeus. California Jesuit, who made a famous, infamous “informal visitation of the
American Assistance 1940-43 and gave a super-detailed written report.
Manresa. The town in Spain where St. Ignatius meditated on the life of Christ, discovered Kempis,
The Imitation of Christ, and first conceived his Spiritual Exercises. He remained there for almost a
year, (1522-23) and here too, he began to help and counsel others.
Manualia. The daily manual labor, house jobs or assignments, normally done after breakfast -
cleaning toilets or corridors, etc. We even had manualia jackets to wear for those occasions.
Manuductor. To lead by the hand. The name given to the novice assigned to be the leader of the
group. He was assisted by a sub-manuductor and a sub-sub.
Martyrology. A listing of the saints whose feasts are celebrated on a particular day. This was read
in the dining room every evening. Several entries evoked laughter, such as the 10,000 martyrs
buried in Cologne. It concluded each evening with “and in other places, of many other holy martyrs,
confessors and virgins.”
Master of Novices. Pater Magister. The Jesuit in charge of the formation or training of the novices, and
the one who approves them for first vows.
Men and women for others. Jesuit education should form these, according to Fr. Arrupe. This is found
in his address to Jesuit alumni on 31 July, 1973.
Minister. Fr. Minister. Administrative assistant to the Superior of a Jesuit House, responsible for
temporal affairs.
Ministry of Consolation. A description of the ministry of the early Jesuits. By the sacraments of
confession and the Eucharist, through preaching and teaching, they tried to bring God’s consoling
grace and peace to those they ministered to.
Minor vac and major vac. Vacation periods. Major vac is 15 days of holiday at the end of the school
year at a villa if possible. Minor vac are shorter holiday periods.
Missa Cantata. Sung Mass. Not a high Mass, but a liturgy in which some parts of the Mass were sung.
Missa Recitata. Also called Dialog Mass. A pamphlet with the title, Missa Recitata, was written by Fr.
Gerald Ellard in 1943, a key part of the move towards active participation by the laity (not only the
altar servers) in celebration of Mass.
Mission, The. The movie of 1986 on the Jesuit Reductions in South America. A few Jesuits were
advisers, and Fr. Dan Berrigan had a small part in it.
Modesty of the Eyes. Rule 3 of the Rules for Modesty. Eyes should be kept downcast, and not wander
about.
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Montmartre. A decisive moment in the history of the Jesuits here, on 15 August 1534, Ignatius, with six
companions. Faber, Xavier, Simon Rodriguez, Lainez, Salmeron, and Bobadilla, pronounced their vows.
Montserrat. A Benedictine monastery and mountain retreat where Ignatius held a one night vigil
before the Black Madonna, Our Lady of Montserrat. He was a pilgrim on his way to Jerusalem, and
here he lay down his sword and dagger and took up the pilgrim staff.
Monumenta Historica Societatis Jesu - Monumenta Ignatiana, A series of large volumes, critical
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editions of early Jesuit writings.
More universal good, the. According to the Constitutions (No. 603) this is always to be sought. And
Ignatius adds that the more universal something is, the better it is.
Nadal, Jerome. Early companion of Ignatius, most trusted by Ignatius. He explains that “for the
Society, the whole world will become its house.” And he writes: “It must be noted in the Society
that there are different kinds of houses or dwellings. These are: the house of probation, the college,
the professed house, and the journey – and by this last the whole world becomes our house.” See
Studies, March 1984. Nadal described Ignatius as “a contemplative in action.”
Narthex. A porch or vestibule of a church, before the proper entrance, as it was at Loyola Seminary,
Shrub Oak.
Nativity Schools. The Nativity Miguel network of about 64 middle schools, Many are sponsored by
Jesuits. Nativity Mission Center, begun in NYC in 1971 was the first.
National Jesuit News (NJN) This tabloid began in 1971, presenting monthly news from the USA
Assistancy and beyond. It was somewhat of a replacement for Woodstock Letters. The final
print issue was September 2009, Vol. 39, No. 1 and it is now presented only online. (www.
nationaljesuitnews.org)
Ne potus noceat. Lest the drink harm you. A way to say one could eat a cookie during Lent, or on a fast
day at the same time as one drinks coffee or some liquid. A way that moral theologians or canon
lawyers would argue.
Ne quid nimis. Nothing in excess. Classical wisdom from the classical tradition often shared in Jesuit
education.
Nemo dat quod non habet. You can’t give what you don’t got. Originally a legal term, but perhaps used
as an incentive to urge Jesuits to study hard!
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New Society, the. The Society of Jesus so called after its Restoration by Pope Pius VII in 1814.
Nineteenth Annotation Retreat. Retreat in Daily Life. This stems from 19th annotation at the beginning of
the Spiritual Exercises (No. 19). It envisions a retreat made over a longer period of time than a week or
month, by taking one and one half hour a day rather than the full day for prayer and reflection.
Noli tangere. The rule of given to novices. Common Rules, No. 32. We were not to physically touch
one another. “An exception may be made for the embrace of charity, when one returns from a journey
or sets out on one.” Thus even when playing softball, we could only have force plays, rather than
touch and tag the player out.
Non coerceri maximo, contineri tamen a minimo, divinum est. “To suffer no restriction from anything
however great, and yet to be contained in the tiniest of things, that is divine.” A saying applied to
Ignatius in 1640 on the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Society of Jesus.
According to Hugo Rahner, “no description of Ignatius has ever equaled these words.” Ignatius had
the ability to hold the large vision together with the practical, down to earth concern for details.
Novena of Grace. Nine days, March 4-12, of special prayers to St. Francis Xavier to obtain special
favors and graces. It usually also involves preaching on the life and mission of Xavier.
Novice. The first two years of Jesuit formation, followed by Juniorate, Philosophy, Regency,
theology, tertianship. Traditionally the entire course up to priestly ordination, took 13 years. It was
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once called once ‘a 13 year windup for one wild pitch.’
Numquam duo. Never two. Jesuits assigned to walk during recreation period were always sent in
groups of threes and never in twos. Probably connected with a view of human sexuality.
O Juvenis Angelice. O Angelic Youth. A hymn in honor of St. Stanislaus Kostka sung by novices on his
feast day, 13 November. He is the patron saint of novices.
1. O Juvenis angelice, O Sancte Stanislae,
Tuos clientes respice, O Sancte Stanislae.
Per juventutis gaudium, fac nos sequi te praevium,
O Kostka audi nos, fraters et aemulos.
2. Tu castitatis lilium… , etc. etc.
Obedience of the will, judgment, and execution. Full obedience involves all three levels, not only doing
or executing what the Superior commands. Cf. Constitutions (Nos. 547 and 550) and the famous
letter of Ignatius on obedience.
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Old Society. The Society prior to the Suppression by Pope Clement XIV in 1773. Thus 1540-1773.
Perhaps a total of 85,000 men lived and died in the Old Society.
Omega point. Fr. Teilhard deChardin pointed to the omega point as the final goal (cf Rev 1:8) of all
evolutionary processes in the universe. He died in NY City in 1955, and wrote The Divine Milieu, a
classic of the spiritual life as well as many other volumes.
Omnes ad. At times, the entire group of novices or juniors were to help with the clean up after a meal
or sent to shovel the snow off the ice to enable skating (patinatio).
One foot on the ground, one in air. Attributed to Ignatius to describe the Jesuit laborer in the vineyard
as one always busy and yet ready to move. Cf. his Scintilla for February 14.
One Hundred Horses. A landmark painting by Br. Giuseppe Castiglione in 1728. He introduced three-
dimensional art to China. His famous painting is now in Taiwan. He was given a state funeral when
he died in China in 1766.
Ong, Walter. A Jesuit (1912-2003) from St. Louis, a polymath, scholar, and cultural historian. He was
an expert on Peter Ramus, and explored the shift from orality – oral cultures - to written cultures.
One quote of his: “Computers were to be a part of God’s creation as much as dinosaurs were.”
Order of religion. An alphabetical list of the Jesuits who entered on a certain day. We were given
places in the ascetory (study hall) and napkin boxes, etc. in the order of religion.
Ordinandi. Latin, for that group and those individuals who were soon to be ordained to the
priesthood.
Oremus pro invicem. Let us pray for one another. This was often used at the conclusion of a letter to a
fellow Jesuit.
Our Lady of the Way – Madonna della Strada. This is the name of a late 15th or 16th century image of
the Blessed Virgin Mary, enshrined at the Church of the Gesu in Rome, restored in 2006. Madonna
Della Strada is the patroness of the Society of Jesus. Its founder, Ignatius of Loyola, was said to have
been protected by the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary during battle in his service as a soldier.
Our way of proceeding, Characteristics of. Found in General Congregation 34, Decree 26. This presents
eight characteristics, namely 1) Deep Personal Love for Jesus Christ. 2) Contemplative in Action. 3)
An Apostolic Body in the Church. 4) In Solidarity with Those Most in Need. 5) In Partnership with
Others, 6) Called to Learned Ministry, 7) Men Sent, Always Available for New Missions, and 8) Ever
Searching for the Magis.
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P
P.C. Pax Christi. Peace of Christ! After you address the person you are writing a letter to, you often put
P.C. – thus “Dear Father Joe, P.C.” would begin a letter.
Pamplona. Town in Spain, scene of a battle which was a life changing experience for Ignatius. On 21
May, 1520 he was wounded in battle and thus led to his conversion.
Paone, Anthony. My Daily Bread - My Daily Life. Two small books of reflections by this New York
Jesuit priest, books which sold over 1.2 million copies.
Particular Examen. Recommended in the Spiritual Exercises (No. 24) a practice or strategy that aims
and focuses on correcting a particular defect or progressing in a particular virtue.
Particular friendship. One-on-one friendship, that tended to be exclusive. These were to be avoided
like the plague. Thus numquam duo, semper tres (never two, always three). Our charity was to be
universal.
Passive voice. A Jesuit has passive voice at a meeting/congregation if he can be voted for or elected
to some position. But he himself cannot vote. He has active voice if he can both vote and be voted for.
Pastry. The Jesuite is a gourmet French pastry, which receives it’s name from the triangular shape
of the hat worn by the Catholic Jesuit priests. Made in France, this buttery and flakey pastry is filled
with creamy vanilla custard, and is typically served topped with powdered sugar.
Peculium. Pocket money, small funds one could hold so one could survive in the world. Also called
“pecuniam.”
Pedes. Feet. An act of penance and/or humility whereby one went on one’s knees under the dining
room table, and touched or kissed the shoes/feet of others.
Pedes. Name given to the game of football. As played by novices, it became flag football meaning
we could violate the rule of touch by tagging one another (two-hand tag football). Thus it was only a
passing game and wherever you caught the ball, you stopped.
Penance table. Mensa penitentiae. Chairs are removed from on table, and after you get the permission
of the rector, you took the meal kneeling rather than sitting. This might be possible once or twice a
week during Lent, for example.
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Per diem. For one day. The charge for staying at a Jesuit house for one day. Or what it costs for a
Jesuit to live there for one day.
Persecution. Ignatius saw this as a positive sign. “If it were lacking, our strength would die away.
Scintilla, June 13. So too, there is “no storm worse than calm.” Scintilla, March 15.
Plaustrum. A large cart or trolley for carrying dishes or food in and out of the refectory (dining room).
Plus sign. To give someone a plus sign is to overlook or give a positive rather than critical negative
interpretation to the conduct or words of another. See the Presupposition in the Spiritual Exercises,
No. 22.
Poets, Rhets, Rhetoricians. Poets were in their first year of Juniorate after taking vows. Rhets
(Auditores Rhetoricae) were in the second year after novitiate.
Portico. A covered walkway, suitable for taking a walk back and forth on a rainy day.
Postulancy. The first week of the novitiate which ended with a triduum and the giving of the habit.
For brother candidates, it lasted six months.
Postulant: One of several names used to designate a candidate for membership in a religious
institute during the period before novitiate.
Pray and work… Scintilla, January 2. “let our first rule of action be to trust in God As if success
depended entirely on yourself and not on him. But use all your efforts as if God alone did everything,
and yourself nothing.” This is written and interpreted differently by many commentators.
Pray for the church and Society. Orat pro soc. The mission entrusted or assigned to a Jesuit towards
the end of his life, for example, when he is assigned to live in an infirmary.
Prayer for Generosity. “Dear Lord, Teach me (us) to be generous. To give, etc..” Often linked with Ignatius
even if he never wrote or recited it. Much of it echoes his thought, but some he might disagree with.
Preferential option for the poor. Viewpoint found in much of liberation theology and embraced by the
Society of Jesus in its decrees. The poor and underserved should be given special (but not exclusive )
priority in our ministries.
Prelect, prelection. An ingredient of Jesuit pedagogy. At the end of a class or day, the teacher
prelects or gives students a preview of what they will be reading, studying for homework or their
next assignment.
Preprandials. This refers to the time and drink before dinner (prandium is Latin for dinner). Now a
common feature of the daily order.
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Presumed permission. When you do something which normally you should ask permission to do, but
you cannot find or see the Superior, you presume his permission.
Presupposition. Spiritual Exercises, No. 22. One should presuppose truth and give good interpretation
to another’s statement, rather than condemn it as false. Similar to giving a plus sign.
Primi, Secundi. Primi are first year novices; secundi are second, final year novices.
Princess Juana, The only woman (so far) to die with Jesuit vows. In 1554 she took the vows of Jesuit
scholastics. From Austria, she was Regent of Spain, and the daughter of Emperor Charles V. Her
pseudonym or code name was Mateo Sanchez. She died in 1573. See Hugo Rahner, Saint Ignatius
Loyola – Letters to Women.
Probabiliorism: The moral system asserting that the more probable opinion of a varied set of
acceptable positions regarding the binding character of a law should be accepted. If the reasons for
being free from a law are more probably true, one is freed from the law’s obligations. Probabiliorism
maintained that if it was probable that the law did not bind, one still had to follow it unless it was
more probable that the law did not bind.
Probabilism: A moral system for use in cases of conscience which involve the obligation of doubtful
laws. There is a general principle that a doubtful law does not bind. Probabilism teaches that it is
permissible to follow an opinion favoring liberty, provided the opinion is certainly and solidly probable.
Procurator. Usually a financial officer, stemming from the Roman classical tradition.
Procurators, Congregation of. Now held every four years, one procurator is elected from each
province. They vote on whether we should hold a General Congregation, and examine the state of
the universal Society.
Professed House. A house or residence where those who had completed their training lived, but not
necessary meaning that all who lived there were professed Fathers (of 4 vows). It is contrasted with
houses of probation.
Provincial Letters, the. By Blaise Pascal. “Containing an Exposure of the Reasoning and Morals of
the Jesuits.” Written in 1656-7, and under a pseudonym, it is an attack upon the Jesuits from the
perspective of Jansenism. Thus on grace, on Jesuit casuistry, and against the relaxed morals of Jesuit
teachers and confessors.
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Q
R
Quant je puis. All that I can. The motto of Stonyhurst College, England, founded in 1593.
Rabat. A clerical collar. Pronounced “rabee”. Clerical black vest black with white collar, worn by a priest.
Ratio Studiorum. The Jesuit Code of Liberal Education, given its final form and official sanction in
1599. The first draft was in 1586. It contains principles and detailed instruction, the plan for studies
for Jesuit education. It helped both teachers and administrators.
Regency regent - usually teaching – 3 years between phil and theoSometimes is a period for special
studies
Regimini Militantis Ecclesiae. Papal Bull of 27 September, 1540, Pope Paul III gives the Society
official status in the Church
Renovation, renewal of vows. Twice a year, those without final vows were expected to make a triduum,
three days of prayer, and then renew their vows. Since even first vows were perpetual, this was a
ceremonial renewal.
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“Repetitio est mater studiorum.” Repetition is the mother of studies. Educational principle taught in
Jesuit schools. Repetition is also very important and common in making the Spiritual Exercises
Restoration. The Society was restored on 7 August, 1814 by the Bull of Pius VII, Sollicitudo omnium
ecclesiarum. Also celebrated now as the Reestablishment of the Society.
Retreat. There are various types. Long - annual, 30 day, or possibly a three day, triduum – spiritual
exercises.
Ricci, Matteo. Father of Chinese Mathematics and Astronomy, Geographer of China. See also
Chinese Rites Controversy.
Rodriguez, Alphonsus. Wrote The Practice of Christian Perfection – also called the Practice of Christian
and Religious Perfection. 3 volume work famed for its stories. Read through twice by novices, as it
was assigned to be read for 30 minutes almost every day. Joseph Rickaby translated it, apparently
only when ordered to do so under holy obedience.
Roman College. Ignatius established a “School of Grammar, Humanity, and Christian Doctrine” on 18
February 1551 in Rome. It eventually became the Gregorian University. The year after the Roman
College opened, we opened the Collegio Germanico, German College.
Rule of touch. Sometimes called “tactus”. “noli me tangere” – do not touch me. Rule for Jesuit
novices (Common Rule 32 so that even when playing softball, we did not tag to make an out, but
only had force plays at second base, for example.
Rules for Conversation. This includes topics we can talk about in time of recreation. Gathered by
S
Nadal, these were read out to Jesuits in formation twice a year. We can talk of the virtues, and “of
the contrary vices, except that contrary to chastity.” And finally, “of such things as may edify and
unbend the mind – having little of speculation and much of affection – are religiously agreeable and
agreeably religious.”
Sacred Silence. This began at the end of evening recreation around 7:30 and continued until after
breakfast the next morning. Extra special silence. If you spoke, it was called “breaking silence.”
Sadhana. Title of a widely sold book by Anthony de Mello, a Way to God: Christian Exercises in
Eastern Form.
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“Satis.” Enough! Word or signal given by the minister at the end of a meal, meaning time for grace
after meals.
Schola Brevis. Short, brief class or school. A way to ease into the new school year, possibly with a
half-day.
Seal of confession. The absolute duty of priests not to disclose anything that they learn from penitents
during the course of the Sacrament of Penance. In the year 1813, the Court of General Sessions in
New York recognized the privilege as in a decision rendered by De Witt Clinton, recognized the privi-
lege as applying to Rev. Anthony Kohlmann, SJ, who refused to reveal in court information received
under the seal of confession.
Second table. Sit down meal for those who served at first table, or who came in late (of course with a
valid reason)
Seismology. Called the Jesuit science because of the many Jesuits who charted and studied
earthquakes.
Secchi and Sestini stellar spectroscopy catalog stars by colors Pietro Angelo Secchi
Secchi disk - disk to measure water transparency in oceans and lakes, Invented by Fr. Secchi for the
papal navy. Cf.Wikipedia.
Seven Hill. Name of the Jesuit vineyard in Australia. The brand name of their wine. California Jesuits
ran NOVITIATE wine at the novitiate of Los Gatos. Once famed for Black Muscatel.
Short course/long course Brighter scholastics were in the long course, with tougher Professors. Short
course did the minimum. Sometimes a year was divided into an A and a B class.
Sickness no less than health is a gift from God. Ignatius, in the Constitutions (No. 272) States this
shocking truth. He is urging the sick to be patient and draw fruit from their experience. God remains
with the person in sickness.
Society of Love A description by Xavier of the Society of Jesus: “it seems to me that ‘Society of
Jesus’ means to say “a Society of love and in conformity of minds.” Letter of 12 January, 1549.
Sogang University Seoul, South Korea. Sogang College began in 1960, and in 1970 became a University.
Solemn profession. Those who took four vows, thus including the solemn vow to obey the Pope in
regards to mission.
Soli. To one only. This is written on the envelope of a letter which will only be opened Only by the
person to whom it is addressed, and not opened or read by any other such as an assistant or secretary.
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Solvitur ambulando. It is solved by walking. Advises us to take it slow, be patient, don’t force the
issue. The desired result will come in its own time. It will work itself out in the practical order.
Sophia University Tokyo. Renowned Jesuit University in Japan. 1903 Sophia University is opened
under the Japanese law regulating special schools.. It includes departments of philosophy, German
literature, and commerce. Fr. Hermann Hoffmann assumes office as the first president.
Sources Chrétiennes. series of books, begun in 1942, texts of the Fathers of the Church, edited by
French Jesuits.
Spiritual coadjutor, temporal coadjutor. Spiritual coadjutor is a Jesuit priest who takes three but not
four vows. Temporal coadjutor is the former and now no longer title or name for a Jesuit brother who
takes three but not four vows.
Spiritual Exercises. Refers more generally to practices of prayer and meditataion, etc. And more
specifically to the book of the Spiritual Exercises written by St. Ignatius. Thus a set of prayer
exercises devised by St. Ignatius, a handbook for a retreat director.
Status. The annual list of new assignments or appointments made by the Provincial. Years ago, it
came out in June. The word status is pronounced with short ‘a” as in Latin.
Steel Priest. Fr. Bill Hogan (1919-2002) of NY, was a world expert and writer of many volumes on the
steel industry. He taught at Fordham University.
Superior General. The General Superior. The head of the Jesuits, based in Rome. He is called ‘general’
not because of military overtones, but ‘general’ meaning universal.
Suppression. The Suppression of the Society of Jesus was ordered by Pope Clement XIV in his brief,
Dominus ac Redemptor issued on 21 July, 1773. It lasted for 41 years until 1814. See also Restoration.
Suscipe, Sume et Suscipe. Take, Lord and Receive. Prayer of offering one self found at the end of the
Contemplation to attain the Love of God, at the end of the Spiritual Exercises No. 234).
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T
T.A.L. Free time - tempus ad libitum. Usually short periods of the daily. Schedule where you are free
(within bounds) to do what you wish.
Take and Receive. A traditional Jesuit hymn sung at Vow Days, Ordinations, Funerals. Based upon
the prayer at the end of the Spiritual Exercises, the Sume et Suscipe. There are several versions of
this including a traditional one with a strong, martial tone, and the more gentle version of the St.
Louis Jesuits.
Tantum quantum. Spiritual Exercises, First Principle, No. 23. This rule from the Exercises advises the
Jesuit, the retreatant to use a certain thing, indeed all things only (tantum) in as much (quantum) or
as far as it leads to the glory of God and service of others.
TARBO. Typical Affair Run By Ours. When things get all screwed up. When our normal search for
excellence was lacking.
Teach catechism to children. “Special care for the instruction of children” is part of the vow formula
(Constitutions No. 527 and 535) and the Formula of the Institute. So much so that the early Society
has been called “a society of catechists!”
Temporal coadjutor. A term no longer to be used. A Jesuit brother, as contrasted with a priest who may
be a spiritual coadjutor. In accord with CG 34, Complementary Norm 326 No. 4 states: “…In the future
to use the term “brother” or “Jesuit brother” but not the term “temporal coadjutor,” in our official or
ordinary texts.
Terna. A list of three nominees, three names submitted to a higher authority, and he is to choose one
of them to become, for example, the provincial. He can also reject all three and ask for other names.
Tertian instructor. Tertian Master. Similar to the novice master, he is in charge of the tertians – their director.
Tertianship. The 15th and final year of forma Jesuit training. Called “tertian-ship or ‘third probation’ as
it Is the third year of specifically spiritual training, with the two years of novitiate being the first two
years. It comes after ordination for priests. One studies the Jesuit Constitutions, makes the long, 30
day retreat and goes on extended apostolic assignments. Also called the “school of the heart” after
years of the head in intellectual studies. Recently beatified Jesuit Fr. Bernard de Hoyos, who died as a
tertian in 1735 is being called the patron of tertians.
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The chastity of the angels. A phrase from the Constitutions, describing the quality of the Jesuits life of chastity.
He should “endeavour to imitate the angelic purity by the purity of the body and mind” (Constitutions 547).
The Jesuits Book. Fr. Paul le Hoste (+1700) wrote a book on naval tactics and warfare, on how
to be a commander, how to maneuver ships, etc. It is called “the Jesuits book” at the US Naval
Academy at Annapolis.
Theological Studies. A quarterly journal of academic theology sponsored by the provinces of the Society
of Jesus in the United States. In continuous publication since 1940, the journal’s editorial offices are at
Marquette University.
Thesaurus Spiritualis SJ. Volume for Jesuits containing – all in Latin – the Spiritual Exercises,
Directory of the Exercises, various Rules, letters, and documents of the Society.
Thinking with the church, rules for. Five pages of Rules of St. Ignatius, found at the end of the Spiritual
Exercises, No. 352-370. It includes (No. 365.13) “What seems to be white, I will believe black if the
hierarchical Church so defines.”
Third probation, tertianship. For priests, after ordination there is one more year of formation before final vows.
Somewhat similar to novitiate (first probation) tertianship involves making a 30 day retreat, experiments/
experiences, and studying the Constitutions. It is called “the school of the heart” in the Constitutions 516.
Three degrees of humility/love. Third degree of humility. From the Second Week of the Spiritual
Exercises. To follow Christ completely. Nos. 165-68.
1. no mortal sin
2. no venial sin.
3. follow Christ most perfectly
Three methods of prayer. Spiritual Exercises 238-60. The second method consists in contemplating
the meaning of each word of a prayer (or it could be a Scripture passage). This is close to lectio
divina. The third method involves “a measured rhythmical recitation” pausing over a phrase for a few
seconds, or with each breath, as one reads a prayer or Scripture passage.
Tones, toni class. Sunday afternoon speech class “they contain all the tones in use in the pulpit.” This dates
back to the time of Ignatius and the Roman College, and was memorized in Latin (No ignoratis, Christiani,
quonam pacto fragilis…) and in English (You must know, dear Christians, that man has fallen into sin…)
Tribune. At St. Andrew on Hudson, the upstairs area in the chapel, overlooking the main chapel,
where guests and women could attend Mass, as it was not considered part of the cloister.
Tric. Triclinarius. Person in charge of the dining hall at the novitiate. Triclinium is a name for the
refectory or dining hall.
Two Standards. A key meditation in the second week of the Exercises (Nos. 136-48). Following the
call of the King, we are to engage under his standard or banner, rather than the standard of Satan. It
involves three steps: choose poverty as opposed to riches: insults as opposed to the honors of the
world; humility as opposed to pride.
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U
“Ultimus quadrans Latine, Deo gratias:” “Semper Deo gratiae et Mariae” To practice spoken Latin,
novices in their recreation period sometimes had to talk for the last fifteen minutes in conversational Latin.
V
Uniformity. “As far as possible, we should all think alike and speak alike, in conformity with the
Apostle’s teaching” Constitutions No. 273. An ideal that is not always reached.
Union of hearts. A way of describing Jesuit common life in the Constitutions, No. 655. Now often
described as “union of minds and hearts.” As in Constitutions and Norms. No. 311-313.
Vatican Observatory. The Vatican Observatory (Specola Vaticana) is an astronomical research and
educational institution run by Jesuits and supported by the Holy See. Originally based in the Roman
College of Rome, it now has headquarters and laboratory at the summer residence of the Pope in
Castel Gandolfo, Italy, and an observatory at the Mount Graham International Observatory in the
United States.
Vatican Radio. Radio Vaticana is the official broadcasting service of the Vatican. Set up in 1931 by
Guglielmo Marconi, its programs are offered in 47 languages, and are sent out on short wave (also
DRM), medium wave, FM, satellite and the Internet. The Jesuit Order has been charged with the
management of Vatican Radio since its inception.
Veni Creator. Hymn to the Holy Spirit sung at the beginning of the annual visitation of the house by
the provincial. Also sung on other occasions.
Visitor. An officially appointed Jesuit to visit, examine, evaluate, and make recommendations
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regarding a province or work. The visitor normally has wide powers.
Viva Cristo Rey! Words, shout of Blessed Miguel Pro, SJ. as he faced execution in Mexico on the
eve of the feast of Christ the King, on November 23, 1927.
Volt - Electric term named after Alessandro Volta (+ 1827), who was a Jesuit for a short time. Volta’s
father was also a Jesuit for eleven years. Ampere attended a Jesuit school, and Ohm taught at a
Jesuit school.
Vows against ambition. In addition to the three vows, and possibly the fourth vow of obedience,
there are five simple vows of the solemnly professed and the formula is given in the Constitutions
and Complimentary Norms, No. 134. A Jesuit promises, vows, not to lessen poverty, not to seek
any prelacy or dignity outside the Society, and to turn in, or manifest it, if another is so seeking or
ambitioning. Finally, if in spite of this, one is made a bishop, he will at least listen to counsel which
the superior general offers.
Vult. - Latin word for ‘he wishes.’ Pater Magister vult te videre. In the novitiate, the manuductor gave
you a card with this on it, indicating that the Novice instructor “Father Master wants to see you.” It
could also be given by placing two fingers down on your desk, forming a V.
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W
Waterfront priest. Fr. John M. (Pete) Corridan, of NY (1911-1984). His life with the dockworkers
inspired the movie, “On the Waterfront,” with Marlon Brando.
Women Jesuits. All together, there werefour but three were dismissed. Three took vows on Christmas
Day, 1545, in the presence of Ignatius, namely Isabel Roser, Lucrezia di Bradine, and Francisca
Cruyllas. Within a year, all three were dispensed from these vows. Some years later, Princess Juana
died with her Jesuit vows.
Woodstock College. opened in Woodstock Maryland, 1869. Moved to New York City in 1969 and 1970,
linked with Union Theological Seminary, and closed in 1974. It continues to some extent through the
Woodstock Theological Center, a think tank and library now housed at Georgetown University.
Woodstock Letters. Quarterly journal originating at Woodstock College, Maryland, containing news,
announcements, essays, history, obituaries. A rich resource from Vol. 1: 1872 to Vol. 98, No. 3, 1969.
World is our house/home. This stems from Nadal, and is referred to in Decree 2 of CG 35, No. 40.
“Wrinkles on the forehead and much more on the nose are to be avoided.” Rule 5 of the Rules of Modesty
or Rules of Deportment drawn up by Ignatius in the last two years of his life. At least they point to
the importance of non-verbal communication.
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Thoughts of St. Ignatius Loyola. From the Scintillae Ignatianae compiled by Gabriel Hevenesi, SJ. Fordham
University Press, New York, 2006.
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