Jesu-what!?
Jesuit 101
The lingo you keep hearing, explained!
You’ve probably heard words like “magis” thrown around campus and thought what does that even mean? Or maybe you’re just curious about what makes a Jesuit education at SJU truly unique—either way, you’re in the right place!
Who Was St. Ignatius?
From Soldier to Saint: The Man Behind the Jesuits
If there’s one thing you should know about St. Ignatius of Loyola, it’s that his life took a wild turn.
- Born in 1491 in Spain, young Ignatius was all about knighthood, glory, and the finer things in life.
- That is, until a cannonball took him down in 1521 during battle. While recovering, he had nothing to read except books on saints and spirituality—not exactly the thrilling adventurous story he prefered.
- Inspired by the lives of the saints, Ignatius ditched his old ways and set off on a new kind of adventure: one focused on serving God and others in a meaningful way.
- He traveled, studied, and gathered like-minded friends who shared his mission. By 1540, this group became the Society of Jesus—aka, the Jesuits.
Today, his vision lives on through Jesuit schools, values, and spiritual practices worldwide—including the very school you’re at right now!
What is Jesuit Education?
More Than a Degree—It’s a Mindset
Jesuit education is different from just any private or Catholic school—it’s a time-tested approach to learning that shapes not just what you know, but who you become.
- A 500-Year Tradition of Excellence → The Jesuits have been educating students since 1540, with schools and universities across the world. It’s one of the oldest and most respected education models in history.
- Education with Depth & Purpose → Jesuit schools push you to think critically, make ethical decisions and become an engaged citizen. (Don't believe us? Check out our school's mission statement).
- Reflection Before Action → Jesuit schools don’t just teach—you’re encouraged to pause, reflect, and then act with intention.
- A Commitment to Justice & Service → Jesuit education challenges you to use your knowledge for the greater good.
- A Global Perspective → With hundreds of Jesuit institutions worldwide, a Jesuit education encourages you to engage with the world, explore new perspectives, and prepare for a life of impact, no matter your career.
At the heart of it all, a Jesuit education at SJU prepares you to be a thinker, leader, and person for others—ready to make a difference in whatever path you choose!
Learn the Lino
Magis, Cura Personalis - What does it all mean??
Below are some definitions of popular phrases you might hear—but they’re more than just jargon! Each term is a piece of the larger story and values that make an education at SJU truly unique.
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ad majorem Dei gloriam (AMDG)
Latin: "For the Greater Glory of God" • Ah-d Mah-YO-rehm Day-ee GLO-ree-ahm
The motto of the Jesuits, emphasizing that every action, no matter how small, should reflect God's goodness. This principle encourages selflessness, purpose-driven work, and serving others with integrity.
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cura personalis
Latin: "Care for the Whole Person" • KOO-rah Pehr-soh-NAH-lis
Encourages respect for each individual’s unique needs—intellectual, emotional, spiritual, and physical—fostering holistic growth. This principle calls for us to support and uplift others in all aspects of life, recognizing their full humanity beyond any single role or achievement.
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discernment
Noun • dih-SURN-ment
The process of making thoughtful choices by paying attention to both reason and inner feelings. Rooted in Jesuit spirituality, it involves seeking what is truly good rather than just what is convenient. It encourages reflection, self-awareness, and listening to one’s inner signals to make decisions with wisdom and faith.
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examen
Noun • eg-ZAH-men
A reflective prayer practice taught by St. Ignatius of Loyola that helps individuals recognize God’s presence in their daily lives. It involves pausing to review the day with gratitude, noticing moments of grace, and discerning how to respond with greater faith and purpose.
Learn more about the Examen here.
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finding God in all things
Phrase • FIND-ing God in AHL things
A core Ignatian belief that the divine can be found everywhere—in people, experiences, and the world around us. It encourages an open heart and mind to recognize meaning, purpose, and goodness in everyday life.
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ignatian
Adjective • ig-NAY-shun
The spirituality, teachings, and traditions inspired by St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuits. It encourages active reflection, thoughtful decision-making, and seeking purpose in everyday life. While rooted in Jesuit tradition, Ignatian values can be embraced by anyone, regardless of religious affiliation, as a way to grow and find deeper meaning.
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Ignatius of Loyola
Person • ig-NAY-shus of loy-OH-luh
St. Ignatius of Loyola (1491–1556) was the founder of the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits). Originally a soldier, his life changed after a spiritual awakening led him to develop The Spiritual Exercises, a guide for prayer and reflection. His teachings emphasize discernment, education, and finding purpose in service to others.
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jesuit
Noun • JEZ-you-it
A member of the Society of Jesus, a Catholic religious order founded by St. Ignatius of Loyola. Jesuits are known for their commitment to education, service, and spiritual formation.
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magis
Noun • MAH-jis
A Latin word meaning “more” representing the Jesuit call to strive for excellence with purpose. It’s not about doing more, but about seeking the greater good—choosing what leads to deeper meaning, service, and impact. It encourages continuous growth and a commitment to making a difference.
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with and for others
Phrase • with and for UTH-ers
Commitment to service and justice, calling on us to use our talents to uplift those in need, not just by helping them, but by standing alongside them in the pursuit of equality and dignity. This challenges us to be compassionate, engaged members of our communities, working toward a more just world.
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spiritual exercises
Noun • SPIR-i-choo-uhl EK-ser-siz-iz
A series of reflections, meditations, and prayers developed by St. Ignatius of Loyola to deepen one’s faith and relationship with God. Their goal is to help individuals find spiritual clarity, inner freedom, and a greater sense of purpose in life.
Learn more about the Spiritual Exercises at SJU.