St. John of the Cross
A Mystic of Divine Love
"Where there is no love, put love, and you will find love."
Saint Facts
- Origin:
- Spain
- Gender:
- Male
- Vocation:
- Priest
- Birth:
- 1542
- Feast Day:
- Dec 14
- Death:
- 1591
Saint Details
St. John of the Cross, born Juan de Yepes Álvarez on June 24, 1542, in Fontiveros, Spain, was a prominent figure in the Carmelite reform movement. His early life was marked by hardship, with his father's death and his own time in an orphanage. At 17, he found work in a hospital and later attended the Jesuit College of Medina del Campo. In 1563, he joined the Carmelite Order and in 1567, he was ordained a priest. His encounter with Teresa of Ávila led him to embrace her vision for reforming the Carmelites, adopting the name of the Cross in 1568 as he co-founded the first house of Discalced Carmelites in Duruelo. St. John's involvement in the reform led to imprisonment in 1577 due to misunderstandings, but he escaped with Teresa's help and continued his work. During his imprisonment, he experienced profound spiritual insights that influenced his writings. He died on December 14, 1591, in Ubeda, Spain. His legacy includes works like The Dark Night of the Soul, which are still studied today for their insights into mystical theology. St. John was beatified by Pope Clement X in 1675 and canonized by Pope Benedict XIII in 1726, recognizing his contributions to Christian mysticism and his role as a Doctor of the Church123.
Associated Holy Sites
Monastery of Incarnation
P.º la Encarnación, 1, 05005 Ávila, Spain
Museum John of the Cross
C. Carmen, 13, 23400 Úbeda, Jaén, Spain
Details for: Monastery of Incarnation
The Monastery of the Incarnation, located in Avila, Spain, is a significant religious site closely associated with Saint Teresa of Avila, a prominent mystic and reformer of the Carmelite Order. Founded in the 16th century, the monastery holds deep spiritual importance as the place where Saint Teresa spent much of her life, including her early years as a nun and later as a reformer. Pilgrims visit the monastery to connect with her legacy, as it houses relics, personal belongings, and the cell where she experienced profound mystical visions. The site also includes a museum that showcases her life and works, offering visitors insight into her spiritual journey and contributions to Catholic spirituality. For many, the Monastery of the Incarnation serves as a place of prayer, reflection, and inspiration, drawing those seeking to deepen their faith and learn from Saint Teresa’s example of devotion and reform. Its historical and spiritual significance makes it a cherished destination for pilgrims worldwide.
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