This text provides an account the Society of Jesus in its founding years, with the aim of improving the understanding of the Jesuits in history and today. Following the Society from 1540 through 1565, it shows how this sense of mission evolved, considering topics such as the Jesuits' teaching, their preaching, their casuistry, their work with orphans and prostitutes, their attitudes toward Jews and "New Christians" and their relationship to the Reformation. The text also details the Society's manifold activities in Europe, Brazil and India.