Patron and Founder

ST. FRANCIS XAVIER  (Our School Patron)

St. Francis Xavier (1506–1552), a co-founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), is the Patron of our school. Born in Navarre, Spain, he was a close companion of St. Ignatius of Loyola and shared his zeal for creating a better world. Sent to India in 1542, Xavier began his mission in Goa, where he worked tirelessly to educate and uplift local communities.

Understanding the transformative power of education, Xavier prioritized the establishment of schools to develop the intellectual, practical, social and spiritual skills. His efforts led to the founding of St. Paul’s College in Goa, the first Jesuit educational institution in Asia. It became a centre for fostering a culture of learning and service.

Xavier’s approach to education emphasized inclusivity and adaptability, teaching in local languages and addressing the needs of diverse communities. His legacy inspired the Jesuits to expand their educational mission across India. St. Francis Xavier’s vision laid the foundation for a robust Jesuit educational network in India. Today Jesuit institutions like Xavier Universities at Kolkata, Bhubaneshwar and Patna, St. Xavier’s Colleges in Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Kolkata, over 30 colleges and 100 schools continue his work, combining academic excellence with moral and spiritual formation.

Through the Jesuit educational network, the Xavier method keeps shaping countless lives and contributing to the nation’s intellectual and social development. Xavier’s impact endures as a beacon of service and learning in Indian society.

ST. IGNATIUS LOYOLA  (Founder of the Jesuits)

St. Ignatius Loyola (1491–1556) was a Spanish soldier-turned-spiritual leader who founded the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) in 1540. After a spiritual awakening during his recovery from a battlefield injury, Ignatius dedicated his life to God, emphasizing prayer, discernment, and service. His Spiritual Exercises became a cornerstone of Jesuit formation and are still widely practiced today.

One of Ignatius’ most enduring legacies is his impact on education. He viewed education as a powerful tool for shaping individuals and society. Under his leadership, the Jesuits established schools and universities worldwide, emphasizing intellectual rigor, moral formation, and service to others. By the time of Ignatius’ death, the Jesuits had founded over 35 colleges; today, they oversee hundreds of institutions across the globe.

Jesuit education focuses on holistic development—forming men and women for others, committed to justice and compassion. Prominent Jesuit institutions, such as Georgetown University (USA), Sophia University (Tokyo), XLRI (Jamshedpur) and St. Xavier’s College (Mumbai) embody this ethos. Ignatius’ vision of education as a means of personal transformation and societal betterment has left an indelible mark on the academic and cultural landscape, influencing millions over centuries.