The founder of the Jesuits was on his way to military fame and fortune when a cannon ball shattered his leg. As there were no books of romance on hand during his convalescence, he spent his time reading the life of Christ and that of the saints. His life was deeply touched and a deep conversion was to take place over time.
In 1534 at the age of 33, he and six others vowed to live in poverty and chastity and to go to the holy land. If this became impossible they vowed to offer themselves to the apostolic service of the pope. The latter became the only choice. Four years later Ignatius made the association permanent. The new Society of Jesus was approved by Pope Paul III and Ignatius was elected to serve as its first general. Today the work of the Jesuits is worldwide and they have made a huge impact in society particularly in the whole area of education.