St. John of Ávila
Biographical Details:
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Biography:
John of Avila was a Spanish Catholic priest, theologian, and mystic, born in 1500 in Almodóvar del Campo, in the province of Ciudad Real. He entered the University of Alcalá at the age of 16, where he studied philosophy and theology. After completing his studies, he felt a calling to the priesthood and was ordained a priest around 1526. John began a life devoted to preaching, spiritual direction, and writing. His preaching, often aimed at reforming the clergy and promoting personal piety, attracted many followers, and his influence spread across Spain.
John’s deep spiritual life was marked by mystical experiences, including visions and profound insights into the nature of God. He placed a strong emphasis on personal holiness and the importance of cultivating a close relationship with God through prayer, meditation, and the sacraments. He became one of the leading figures in the Counter-Reformation, advocating for spiritual renewal within the Church. His writings, particularly his “Audi, filia” (Listen, Daughter), are considered significant contributions to Catholic spiritual literature.
Though John of Avila never held any official high-ranking position within the Church, his influence on religious reform was immense. His teaching was highly regarded by contemporaries, including St. Teresa of Ávila and St. John of the Cross. In 2012, John of Avila was declared a Doctor of the Church by Pope Benedict XVI, recognizing his profound theological and spiritual contributions. John died in 1569 in Montilla, leaving behind a legacy of spiritual renewal and devotion that continues to inspire Catholics to this day.
Quotes and Excerpts:
On the Eucharist:
“In the Eucharist, we have the presence of Jesus Christ; it is He who is given to us under the appearance of bread and wine. His love is so great that He comes to us not only in spirit but in body and soul.”-Audi, filia (Listen, Daughter), Chapter 9.
On the Mass:
“The Holy Mass is the most perfect prayer, because in it is offered to God the Father the same sacrifice that Jesus Christ offered on the cross.” – Audi, filia, Chapter 20.
On the Sacraments:
“The sacraments are the channels through which the grace of God flows into the soul; without them, no one can be saved.”-The Spiritual Testament of St. John of Avila, translated by Father Daniel R. Lord, S.J., p. 36.
On the Eucharist:
“The Eucharist is the bread of life that sustains the soul in this life and the beginning of eternal life in the next.” –Audi, filia, Chapter 24.
On Mary:
“Mary is the Mother of all the faithful; she intercedes for us before God, and there is no grace that is not obtained by her intercession.” –The Letters of St. John of Avila, Letter 31