Entirely plausible. And it does not, of course, have to even be overt in the sense of leadership position. A key approach has very often been influence behind the scenes. When practicing Catholics have a Jesuit as their spiritual director, for example. Influence can also work towards much greater ends in the sense of affecting and even controlling decisions/the decision makers.
Training, speaking from my very small awareness of this, is very rigorous and intellectually robust. You will not make the cut to be a fully professed Jesuit if you cant do heavy lifting. Each is required much to add value to the team be it singularly or as a group.
Training towards becoming fully professed is twenty years if i recall correctly. A LOT to overcome in one's formation and development of skills for their "job. Sacrifice, idealism, and the inimitable stamp that comes with being a Jesuit is unequalled. To be accepted into part of their "company" lends its own sort of hubris.
As stated in the article, yes, they are professed in allegiance to the Pope, above all. They were initially founded upon this premise. As much as Christ Jesus might be acknowledged, and likely even more so Mary, the fealty undergirding all of their effort is as the Pope's "Army". This also, of course,, as he is considered the representative of Christ. (shudders)
What a perfect picture to have this current Pope also being a Jesuit..
Jesuits have a strong hand in education. The intellectual realm has always been a major source of their impact and strength. And how better to influence future leaders then to have colleges where you run the show?
Just stuff off the top of my head. I believe that it is all sound. I researched them at length years ago. Been to a retreat or two (i cannot recall another fuzzy chapter in my memory)
With all of that, and all of their EARTHLY power, one is comforted knowing that God is in control and the Jesus Christ is Lord. Not the Vatican NOR the Pope. Amen?
Great post. Well said.
one is comforted knowing that God is in control and the Jesus Christ is Lord. Not the Vatican NOR the Pope. Amen?
AMEN!
ThanQ, anon,
And amen! He is our source of comfort, SAFETY, and relief in these increasingly insane times.
The Lord bless you and yours! In Jesus' Name.
Grace be with you, mercy and peace from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ the Son of the Father, with truth and love.
(post is archived)