Sent to Arévalo, Spain in 1507 at the age of sixteen, Ignatius served as a page to his mentor, Juan Velazquez, treasurer of the kingdom of Castile. As a member of the Velazquez household, he was frequently at court. For 11 years Ignatius learned skills of administration, diplomacy, arms and courtly manners. After he learnt these skills, his next service was with the Duke of Nájera, in the military, where he would go to fight in the Battle of Pamplona.
During The Battle of Pamplona, 1522, a cannonball struck Ignatius, while his army lost their spirit and surrendered. So inspired by Ignatius' bravery and courage, the French healed him and took him to the Castle of Loyola where he had a long recovery. During his recovery, the only books available to read were the Life of Christ, and the Life of The Saints. He read these books and developed thoughts taking him away from honour and glory, rather, developing thoughts about serving Christ.
During Lent in 1539, Ignatius asked all of his companions to come to Rome to discuss their future. After weeks of prayer and discussion, they formed a community with the Pope's approval. This order, called the Society of Jesus was formally approved by Pope Paul III in 1540, and meant that they travelled to wherever they were needed to help others. As elected superior, Ignatius would write thousands of letters to fellow Jesuits around the world leading them in the spiritual life.