Saint Teresa of Avila | October 15

St. Teresa of Ávila | Feast Day October 15

St. Teresa of Ávila (1515-1582) was a Spanish Carmelite nun who lived in the 16th century. She was a mystic and author of spiritual writings and poems. The originator of the Carmelite Reform, she founded numerous convents throughout Spain and restored a contemplative life to the order. She became well known for the mystical experiences, many of which she described in her autobiography. The first of only four women to be named a Doctor of the Church, St. Teresa’s ascetic doctrine and Carmelite reforms shaped Roman Catholic contemplative life, and her writings on the Christian soul's journey to God are considered works of art. Her writings, especially the “Way of Perfection” and “The Interior Castle,” have helped generations of believers. St. Teresa of Avila died on Oct. 15, 1582. She was canonized on March 22, 1622, along with three of her greatest contemporaries: St. Ignatius Loyola, St. Francis Xavier, and St. Philip Neri. ©LPi