Jesuit First Studies Program
Jesuit First Studies Program
Integrating Intellectual and Spiritual Growth
Embracing the Jesuits’ commitment to intellectual inquiry and spiritual development, the Jesuit First Studies program at Loyola University Chicago invites men training to be priests or brothers in the Jesuit order into a dynamic, contextual formation designed to open their hearts and minds and prepare them for mission. First Studies is the second stage of formation, following the Novitiate and preceding Regency, Theology Studies, and Tertianship.
One of three “First Studies” programs in the United States, Loyola’s program unites foundational studies in philosophy and theology with community living and ministerial work.
Academics
In academic courses, Jesuits in First Studies examine complex questions through distinct social, political, economic, and cultural contexts.
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Community
Men in First Studies live in community, where they build bonds with one another and prepare for active life in the Society of Jesus and the Catholic Church.
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Ministry
Working with marginalized populations as well as the greater Loyola community, Jesuits in First Studies deepen their understanding of the human condition and how they might serve others.
Learn more about ministryTestimonials
There are so many remarkable things about teaching Jesuit scholastics — their intelligence, their depth, the thoughtfulness and integrity they bring to all that they do.Joy Gordon, JD, PhD, Ignacio Ellacuría, SJ, Chair in Social Ethics, Philosophy Department and School of Law
The flexibility of studies enabled me to approach Philosophy from an environmental lens and Environmental Sustainability from a philosophical lens. Collin Price, SJ, MS in Environmental Sustainability 2023
The First Studies Jesuits enrich the philosophical environment at Loyola. They help me remember the world and our responsibility to it, and I help them to reflect thoughtfully and critically on the crucial work they are doing to make it better.Dr. Jennifer Gaffney, Graduate Program Director, Philosophy
The most meaningful aspect of my time in First Studies was the opportunity to live with and learn from Jesuits of all ages from around the world. The wisdom of my brothers inspired me to live this life with integrity, boldness, and humility.Cyrus Habib, SJ, First Studies 2022-24
At Loyola, I received mentorship that helped me grow as a scholar and reimagine my apostolic future.Bryan Galligan, SJ, MA in Social Philosophy 2022
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