St. Teresa of Avila
Teresa of Avila was a Carmelite reformer and writer who taught about friendship with God in prayer.
- Life
- 1515–1582
- Canonized
- 1622
Life and vocation
She entered the Carmel of the Incarnation in Avila and later founded Saint Joseph’s convent in 1562. Working with John of the Cross, she helped establish the Discalced Carmelite reform.
Faith in action
The Book of Her Life, The Way of Perfection and The Interior Castle draw on her spiritual experience. Declared a Doctor of the Church in 1970, she links contemplative prayer with perseverance and practical responsibility.
For readers in the United States
For readers in the United States, this collection includes Elizabeth Ann Seton and Kateri Tekakwitha alongside saints from other parts of the world. Follow the United States calendar for local observances.
This biography is not a liturgical reading. For the observances in your area, consult the local calendar and your diocese.
Explore the local liturgical calendar →Daily Catholic Quotes →Sources and further reading
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