Peter Faber, French priest and theologian, co-founded the Society of Jesus (d. 1546)

Peter Faber, known variously by his French names Pierre Lefevre or Favre, and in Latin as Petrus Faver, was a profoundly influential figure in the 16th century and a pivotal co-founder of the Society of Jesus. Born on April 13, 1506, and departing this life on August 1, 1546, he holds the unique distinction of being the first priest ordained within the nascent Jesuit order and a foundational theologian whose contributions shaped its early spiritual and intellectual identity. His close collaboration with Saint Ignatius of Loyola and Saint Francis Xavier laid the groundwork for one of the Catholic Church's most enduring and impactful religious congregations.

Early Life and Spiritual Awakening

Hailing from the humble village of Villaret, in the Duchy of Savoy (present-day France), Peter Faber's early life was rooted in a pastoral, agricultural setting. His intellectual gifts, however, quickly became apparent. Sent to Paris to pursue his studies, he enrolled at the prestigious University of Paris, specifically at the Collège de Sainte-Barbe. It was there, amidst the vibrant intellectual and spiritual ferment of the time, that he encountered two individuals who would forever alter the course of his life and Catholic history: Ignatius of Loyola, a Basque nobleman undergoing a profound conversion, and Francis Xavier, a fellow student from Navarre. Faber initially tutored Ignatius in philosophy, and despite their contrasting personalities – Faber being gentle and introspective, Ignatius more fiery and determined – a deep spiritual bond began to form. Ignatius’s spiritual exercises profoundly impacted Faber, guiding him through periods of doubt and leading him to a deeper commitment to Christ.

The Birth of the Society of Jesus

The shared spiritual journey of Faber, Ignatius, and Xavier culminated in a momentous event on August 15, 1534, the Feast of the Assumption. In a small chapel on Montmartre, Paris, they, along with a few other companions – notably James Laynez, Alfonso Salmeron, and Simon Rodrigues – took vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, promising to dedicate their lives to God and to pilgrimage to Jerusalem or, if that proved impossible, to place themselves at the disposal of the Pope. This humble gathering is recognized as the foundational moment of the Society of Jesus. Peter Faber, having been ordained a priest in 1534, was uniquely positioned as the first to offer Mass for the group, a symbolic act that underscored his theological acumen and priestly identity within the emerging community. His role was not merely supportive; his intellectual rigor and spiritual sensitivity were crucial in articulating the nascent order's vision.

A Life of Mission and Ministry

After their initial vows and the formal approval of the Society of Jesus by Pope Paul III in 1540, Faber embarked on extensive missionary work throughout Europe, exemplifying the Jesuit ideal of being "men for others." His missions took him across Germany, Portugal, Spain, and Italy, often to areas deeply affected by the Protestant Reformation. Faber excelled as a spiritual director and preacher, known for his gentle demeanor, persuasive arguments, and ability to foster reconciliation. He participated in important theological discussions, including at the Diet of Worms and the Diet of Regensburg, advocating for Catholic reform and unity with remarkable charity and intellectual clarity. He focused on individual conversions and spiritual renewal, rather than polemical debates, often using the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius to guide people to a deeper relationship with God. Despite his frail health, his dedication to the mission never wavered.

Legacy and Canonization

Peter Faber died at the young age of 40 in Rome, exhausted by his relentless travels and fervent apostolic work, just as he was preparing to attend the Council of Trent as a papal theologian. His premature passing prevented him from seeing the full flourishing of the Society of Jesus, yet his contributions were indelible. He left behind a spiritual diary, the "Memoriale," which offers profound insights into his interior life and remains a cherished text for Jesuit spirituality. For centuries, he was venerated as "Blessed Peter Faber." His formal canonization was a unique event: on December 17, 2013, Pope Francis, himself a Jesuit, declared his "equipollent canonization" or "equivalent canonization." This special process recognizes a saint based on long-standing veneration, a consistent reputation for holiness, and the absence of a cult, rather than requiring the usual two miracles. This announcement by the first Jesuit Pope underscored Faber's profound and lasting significance within the Catholic Church and the Society of Jesus.

Frequently Asked Questions about Peter Faber

Who was Peter Faber?

Peter Faber was a prominent 16th-century French theologian and one of the original co-founders of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), alongside Saint Ignatius of Loyola and Saint Francis Xavier. He also held the distinction of being the first priest ordained within the Jesuit order.

When was Peter Faber born and when did he die?

He was born on April 13, 1506, and passed away on August 1, 1546, at the age of 40.

What was Peter Faber's main role in the founding of the Society of Jesus?

Faber was instrumental in the intellectual and spiritual formation of the early companions. As the first priest among the initial group, he celebrated the first Mass after they took their foundational vows on Montmartre. His theological expertise and gentle guidance were vital in shaping the nascent order's vision.

What is "equipollent canonization" and why was it used for Peter Faber?

Equipollent canonization (or equivalent canonization) is a process used by the Pope to declare someone a saint without the standard formal beatification and canonization procedures, which typically require two verified miracles. It is applied when there is long-standing public veneration, a consistent reputation for holiness, and clear evidence of heroic virtues. Pope Francis, being the first Jesuit Pope, used this method to recognize Faber's long-established sanctity on December 17, 2013.

Where did Peter Faber conduct his missionary work?

He traveled extensively throughout Europe, particularly in Germany, Portugal, Spain, and Italy, engaging in spiritual direction, preaching, and participating in theological dialogues during the challenging period of the Protestant Reformation.