October 15, 2021

St Teresa of Avila

Today is the feast day of St Teresa of Avila (1515 – 1582). Beatified in 1614 by Pope Paul V, she was canonized in 1622 by Pope Gregory XV. In 1970 Pope Paul VI declared Teresa and St Catherine of Siena doctors of the Church, the first two women to be so named.

St Teresa was instrumental in reforming the Carmelite order and started many convents. Her focus was on mental prayer and she wrote several books including an autobiography, Interior Castle, and The Way of Perfection. Teresa said, “Contemplative prayer, in my opinion is nothing other than a close sharing between friends. It means frequently taking time to be alone with Him whom we know loves us.”

St Teresa, pray for us. Help us to make time for Jesus and to cultivate a friendship with Him as you did.

 

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