Battle of Pamplona

    At the age of 30, St. Ignatius found himself as an officer in the Spanish Army.  May of 1521 would be the the end of his old life and the beginning of his life with God.  He was in Pamplona defending a fortress against a massive attack by the French.  It was a very bloody and violent battle.  The Spanish Commander ordered Ignatius and his troops to retreat.  Of course Ignatius did not do as he was told he wanted to fight for the pride of Spain.  He and his men charged.  The French shot a canon ball and it hit Ignatius right in his leg.  His leg was completely shattered.  He was unable to move and felt he was going to die.  The French soldiers were so impressed with the courage and determination of Ignatius they decided to take to the castle of Loyola instead of taking him to Prison.  This is a preview of the person he is to become.

information on this page courtesy of: http://www.luc.edu/jesuit/ignatius.bio.html