The History of IJC

The Ignatius Jesuit Centre in Guelph, Ontario, rests on land with a long and evolving legacy—one shaped by faith, education, resilience, and a growing ecological consciousness. Since its founding in 1913, IJC has served as a place of spiritual formation, community connection, and care for the land.

1913 – Founding of the Novitiate

In 1913, thirteen Jesuits from the English-speaking Province of the Society of Jesus moved from Sault-au-Récollet, Quebec, to establish a novitiate in Guelph. They purchased Bedford Farm, a 600-acre property on the outskirts of town. The site was chosen for its beauty and solitude—ideal for prayer, study, and the rigorous training of Jesuit novices. The institution was named St. Stanislaus Novitiate.

1920s to 1940s – Growth and Expansion

Over the next few decades, the Jesuits added several buildings to accommodate a growing number of students and faculty. In 1921, a chapel wing was added. Further expansions in 1934 and 1949 included classrooms, dormitories, and recreational spaces. By mid-century, the property had become a major centre for Jesuit formation, renamed Ignatius College, serving both novices and junior scholastics.

1954 – The Devastating Fire

Tragedy struck in the early hours of January 3, 1954, when a fire broke out in the roof of the main building. Despite the efforts of firefighters from Guelph and Fergus, the structure—built largely of wood—was engulfed in flames and completely destroyed within hours. Fortunately, no lives were lost, and the community quickly mobilized to rehouse the students and staff. This event marked a pivotal turning point in IJC’s history. Click here to read a wonderful article from Stephen Thorning in the Wellington Advertiser about the fire and it’s impact on the future IJC.

1958–1960 – Rebuilding and Renewal

In the years following the fire, the Jesuits committed to rebuilding. New, modern facilities were constructed between 1958 and 1960, ushering in a new era for Ignatius College. However, by 1967, shifts in Jesuit formation led to the closure of the college, and the property began a gradual transition into new forms of ministry and community service.

1964 – Loyola House and Spiritual Formation

Meanwhile, in 1964, the Jesuits established Loyola House, originally in Oakville, but soon relocated it to the Ignatius property. Loyola House began as a weekend retreat centre and quickly evolved into a hub for Ignatian spirituality. Spearheaded by visionaries like Fathers John English and John Veltri, it offered directed retreats and training in the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius, drawing people from around the world seeking spiritual depth and discernment.

1990s – Toward Ecology and Community Engagement

In the 1990s, the Jesuits began to deepen their commitment to ecological justice. The Ignatius Farm was founded as a space for organic agriculture, community-shared farming, and sustainable land stewardship. At the same time, the grounds and trails of the property became more accessible to the public, welcoming visitors seeking beauty, reflection, and connection to the land.

Following the closure of the college, the main buildings were gradually converted into office and meeting spaces. In 1996, this part of the campus became known as Orchard Park, now a community hub housing organizations that reflect IJC’s values of service, ecology, and social justice.

2006 to Present – The Old-Growth Forest Project

In 2006, IJC launched the Old-Growth Forest Project, a bold ecological restoration initiative with a 500-year vision. The project is focuses on regenerating native forest habitat, protecting biodiversity, and creating a space for environmental education, research, and contemplation. Over time, this initiative has transformed a portion of the property into a sanctuary for wildlife and a place of reflection for all who walk its trails. It stands as a testament to IJC’s long-term commitment to ecological justice and care for our common home.

A Living Legacy

Today, the Ignatius Jesuit Centre includes:

• Loyola House Retreat Centre – a destination for retreats, workshops, and spiritual formation.
• Ignatius Farm – a thriving site for organic food production, community-supported agriculture, and ecological learning.
• IJC’s Land and Trails – a sacred place where people can connect with nature, reflect in quiet spaces, and learn about ecological restoration.

As it moves forward, Ignatius Jesuit Centre remains committed to fostering spiritual growth, ecological awareness, and community collaboration—rooted in its Jesuit beginnings and stepping into the future with hope, vision, and a deep openness to the needs of a changing world.