A.M.D.G.

From Commons

A.M.D.G. is an abbreviation for the Latin phrase “ad majorem Dei gloriam” translating to mean “for the greater glory of God.” The expression was first introduced by St. Ignatius of Loyola in his Spiritual Exercises. The phrase is the motto for the Society of Jesus, also known as the Jesuits.

The phrase is very popular with Jesuit institutions around the world. It typically serves as the motto for Jesuit colleges, universities, and high schools. It is not uncommon for teachers and students at these schools to write “AMDG” across the top of any paper he or she writes for school. The abbreviation is oftentimes publicly proclaimed in the form of large inscriptions in (for example) Churches, especially those named in honor of St. Ignatius. It is also serves as the name for numerous Jesuit publications, from books to newsletters, around the world. Also, the abbreviation can appear on people’s personal affects, including wristbands and necklaces.

In these ways, the display of AMDG helps to serve as a reminder to people who read it that their actions are ultimately serving God’s greater glory. It also helps these people to “find God in all things,” another cornerstone of Ignatian philosophy.

Although the phrase has recently become a “public” proclamation, when originally St. Ignatius introduced it in his Spiritual Exercises, it had a much more private meaning. When a person is faced with a difficult decision, St. Ignatius directs that person to contemplate his or her options, and make a decision based on which option is “for the greater glory of God.” AMDG, according to St. Ignatius, is what a person should be thinking about literally as he or she is making a tough decision.