Catholic Saints
Saint John of Avila, born in 1499 or 1500 in Almodóvar del Campo, Spain, was a 16th-century priest, preacher, and Doctor of the Church. Known as the "Apostle of Andalusia" for his missionary work and spiritual writings, he died in 1569. His feast day is celebrated on May 10.
His feast day is celebrated on May 10.
Doctor of the Church
Born in 1499 or 1500 in Spain, John became a renowned preacher and spiritual director.
John of Avila was born in Almodóvar del Campo, Spain, to a wealthy and pious family of Jewish converso descent. His parents, Alfonso de Avila and Catalina Xixón, sent him to study law at the University of Salamanca at age 14, but he left after a year, feeling called to a more spiritual life. Returning home, he lived in solitude and prayer for three years before studying theology and philosophy at the University of Alcalá, where he was ordained a priest in 1526.
Initially planning to become a missionary in the New World, John sold his inheritance to fund the journey. However, the Archbishop of Seville convinced him to remain in Spain, where his preaching soon gained widespread acclaim.
John dedicated his life to preaching throughout southern Spain, earning the title "Apostle of Andalusia." His sermons, rooted in Scripture and delivered with fervor, inspired conversions and renewals of faith. He also served as a spiritual director to many, including St. Teresa of Avila and St. John of God, and wrote extensively, including his famous work Audi, Filia ("Listen, Daughter"), a guide to Christian perfection.
Despite facing scrutiny from the Spanish Inquisition due to his converso background and bold preaching, John was acquitted in 1533. His influence extended to the founding of several colleges and seminaries, shaping the education of priests in Spain.
John died on May 10, 1569, in Montilla, Spain, after years of poor health worsened by his rigorous ministry. Beatified in 1894 by Pope Leo XIII and canonized in 1970 by Pope Paul VI, he was declared a Doctor of the Church in 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI for his contributions to spiritual theology. His relics are venerated in Montilla.
Known as the patron of Spanish secular clergy and those seeking holiness, John’s writings and example continue to guide the faithful. His emphasis on personal conversion and priestly formation left a lasting impact on the Church.
Born in Almodóvar del Campo.
Born into a pious Spanish family.
Began his priestly ministry.
Completed studies and was ordained.
Acquitted by Inquisition.
Resumed preaching after scrutiny.
Guided saints like Teresa of Avila.
Influenced key figures of the Church.
Died in Montilla.
Passed away and later canonized in 1970.
"If you desire to be perfect, sell your will, give it to the poor in spirit, and come to Christ."
Saint John of Avila Quotes
"A single act of humility is worth more than all the knowledge in the world."
"Withdraw your heart from the world before God takes your body from it. Turn your thoughts to eternity, for this life is short and uncertain."
"Love is the soul’s life; without it, the soul dies."
"If you desire to be perfect, sell your will, give it to the poor in spirit, and come to Christ. For perfection lies not in riches, but in poverty of spirit and surrender to God."
"The measure of our love for God is to love Him without measure."
"He who trusts in himself is lost; he who trusts in God can do all things. For God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness, and His grace is sufficient for every trial."