Born around the year 1500 at Almodover-del-Camp in Spain, John was
about to leave for the missions in Mexico, is detained by the bishop
of Seville who give him the assignment for the new evangelization
of Andalusia. In this region he spends forty years of his life preaching
and writing ascetic works and many letters directed to those who
asked his counsel, as St. Teresa of Avila, St. John of God, St.
Francis Borgia.
|
 |
|
10 May - ST. JOHN OF AVILA, priest
|
He is defined "the apostle of Andalusia" because of his
passionate sermons and his missionary zeal. His father was a converted
Jew. For this reason John, a law student, has to leave the university.
He studies theology with the intention of going to America, but
this project also is destined to fail, because the bishop sends
him to Andalusia. His eloquence springs from his intimate conviction
and his enthusiasm of the Word of God. He uses popular language
so that all can understand him, and his simplicity enables him to
penetrate the hearts of many people.
He dies south of Cordova 10 May 1569 after almost twenty years of
suffering from a grave illness. He is canonized by Paul VI 31 May
1970.
|
