Bishop Tobin on St. Teresa of Avila

"St. Teresa of Avila, whose feast day is October 15, was a Spanish nun who lived from 1515 to 1582. She is a truly heroic figure in the history of the Church, a famous mystic known for her personal holiness, inspired writings, and courageous determination in reforming the religious life, particularly the Carmelite Order of which she was a member. Because of the enduring value of her teaching, St. Teresa was named a 'Doctor of the Church' in 1970, one of the first women to be so honored. 

"Accepting the rigors of the consecrated life did not come quickly or easily to St. Teresa. . . . Throughout her spiritual journey she struggled with serious illness, spiritual temptations, and attractions to worldly pleasures. . . ."

In a recent commentary, Bishop Thomas J. Tobin, of the Diocese of Providence (RI), reflected on the courage and perseverance of Saint Teresa of Avila.

To access Bishop Tobin's complete essay, please visit:

The Imitation of Christ: St. Teresa of Avila - A Lesson In Perseverance (3 OCT 19)