Saint Teresa of Ávila

Saint Teresa of Ávila (1515–1582) was a Spanish mystic, writer, and reformer of the Carmelite Order. Renowned for her deep spiritual insights and commitment to a more wholehearted prayer life, she emphasized inner contemplation and a personal relationship with God. Her writings, such as "The Interior Castle," are considered classics in Christian spirituality, inspiring many to pursue a closer, more authentic faith. She was canonized as a saint in 1622 and declared a Doctor of the Church in 1970, highlighting her profound influence on Christian mysticism and her enduring legacy within the Catholic tradition.