A Jesuit priest is a member of the Society of Jesus, a Roman Catholic religious order founded by St. Ignatius of Loyola in 1540. Jesuit priests are ordained clergy who take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, along with a special fourth vow of obedience to the Pope regarding missions, reflecting their readiness to serve wherever the need is greatest

. Jesuits are known for their commitment to education, missionary work, and social justice. They work in a wide range of fields, including teaching, parish ministry, research, and cultural pursuits, and are often found in schools, universities, hospitals, and various community services

. While all Jesuits (priests and brothers) share the same foundational vows and mission, Jesuit priests are specifically ordained to administer the sacraments and celebrate Mass

. Unlike diocesan priests, who serve in a specific geographic area under a bishop, Jesuit priests are part of a global order and are available for assignments anywhere in the world, under the direction of their order’s superiors and ultimately the Pope

. Their overarching goal is to seek the “greater glory of God” and serve humanity in diverse ways, always striving to “find God in all things”