17th century Europe is in a crisis: war and devastation are overwhelming the continent. The Jesuits want to build an ideal Christian world by spreading the Catholic faith. Their mission leads them overseas, to South America among other places. The Jesuits – including Pater Martin Schmid – are convinced that with their missionary work, they could establish a better social order for indigenous peoples. They constructed so-called reductions, indigenous settlements. There, inhabitants would strive for a Christian ideal based on a strict daily routine of work and prayer. Western virtues such as order, diligence, and control were emphasized. In a way, they implemented a form of entrepreneurial spirit within the communities. Very soon, the reductions turn into a financial success.