One faithful and singular life...
Reflections on the readings for the Memorial of St. Teresa of Jesus (October 15, 2020): EPH 1:1-10; PS 98:1,2-3,4,5-6; LK 11:47-54
MISSIO offers “Mission In Scripture” to nurture a missionary heart, providing reflections on the missionary themes in the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days
This strong, wise, and faithful woman gave herself completely to the service of our Savior and His Church.
On this memorial of St. Teresa of Avila, we commemorate the life of a woman who contributed immeasurably to the Church. In the 16th century, a time when religious Sisters rarely left their convents, she not only reformed her own community, but also journeyed through her native Spain to establish new convents. She had already spent more than 20 years as a Carmelite before she understood that God was calling on her to serve Him more fully. She also began to have visions. Teresa came to appreciate the need for her and her fellow sisters to follow a stricter way of life that had been lost over the years. She established the first of many reformed convents in 1562, naming it in honor of St. Joseph to whom she had a great devotion. Until her death in 1582 at age 67, she continued her tireless efforts on behalf of her order, while continuing to write many books including The Interior Castle, The Way of Perfection, and her autobiography. These works still appeal to those interested in mysticism, prayer, and theology. This strong, wise, and faithful woman gave herself completely to the service of our Savior and His Church.
One of her best-known quotes encourages people to trust in God and find true peace in Him: “Let nothing disturb you, nothing affright you. All things are passing; God never changes. Patience obtains all: Whoever has God lacks nothing else. God alone suffices.” St. Teresa of Jesus was named a saint in 1622 and a Doctor of the Church in 1970 – the first woman so honored.
Suggested missionary action: We can pray to St. Teresa of Jesus, asking her help with changing whatever in our own life needs reforming and simplifying.