Fray Antonio de San Juan de la Cruz

Fray Antonio de San Juan de la Cruz was a Spanish Franciscan friar and writer born in 1540. He is best known for his eloquent spiritual writings, particularly his works on mysticism and prayer, which emphasize the importance of divine love and personal transformation. His most famous work, "The Spiritual Canticle," explores the union of the soul with God. De San Juan de la Cruz is regarded as one of the great mystics of the Catholic Church, and his thoughts have influenced spiritual literature and practices in Christianity. He was canonized as a saint in 1726.