In the 15th-16th centuries, Portugal led Europe in overseas exploration and colonial expansion. Besides economic motivations, they sought to spread Christianity. This is where the Jesuit order provided crucial support as missionaries.
Founded in 1540, the Jesuits dedicated themselves to missionary work around the world. Many of the first Jesuits to travel overseas did so aboard Portuguese ships. Figureheads like Francis Xavier accompanied the first Portuguese delegations, establishing churches in India and beyond.
For decades, Jesuits accompanied Portuguese traders, soldiers and administrators as chaplains and missionaries. They learned local languages and customs to interact with potential converts. In Africa, Jesuits aided colonists by building infrastructure and introducing writing systems.
In Brazil, the first Jesuit reduction villages both provided refuge for natives and spread Catholicism. Overall, the Jesuits proved indispensable partners of Portugal's global colonial ambitions. By bringing the faith to new encounters, they aided Portugal's goal of a vast Christian empire during the Age of Discovery. Their missionary zeal facilitated permanent Portuguese settlements worldwide.