St Teresa of Avila

St Teresa was born in Avila, Spain in 1515.  She joined the Carmelite Order. She made great progress in the way of perfection and enjoyed mystic revelations. In her lifetime, she undertook the reform of the Order, undergoing great trials in the process but maintaining her indomitable spirit.

She wrote extensively, the writings are well known for their dept of their doctrine which showed her own spiritual experiences.  She died at Alba in 1582.

The Concluding Prayer of the Office encapsulates the life and work of this great Doctor of the Church.  It reads as follows:

Almighty God, our Father,

You sent Saint Teresa of Avila to be a witness in the Church  

to the way of perfection.

Sustain us by her spiritual doctrine,

and kindle in us the longing for true holiness.