Fr. Timothy Reid returns as our Commentaries guide for another spiritual classic from St. Teresa of Ávila, The Way of Perfection. Originally written for her fellow sisters four centuries ago, these 20 podcast episodes filled with Christian mysticism and contemplative prayer might be more relevant today, and will no doubt

Father Timothy Reid returns to guide us through another spiritual classic by Saint Teresa of Ávila. This introductory episode on The Way of Perfection provides historical context before delving into the text. He highlights St. Teresa’s remarkable life, her early piety, struggles with health, and eventual founding of reformed Carmelite

Saint Teresa begins The Way of Perfection out of obedience to her nuns’ requests, aiming to address minor temptations, explain her reasons for founding the convent of Saint Joseph, and provide spiritual guidance. Emphasizing detachment and poverty, she encourages her sisters to trust in God for sustenance and to live

Father Timothy Reid relays Saint Teresa’s emphasis on the spiritual battle her nuns must undertake, likening them to a small but powerful group of soldiers within a fortified city. She urges her nuns to pray fervently for the Church’s leaders, especially during the tumultuous times of the Protestant Reformation. Teresa

Father Reid relays Saint Teresa’s emphasis on the crucial role of confessors, stressing that they must be learned and holy to properly guide the nuns on their spiritual journey. She recounts her own struggles with misguided confessors and urges her nuns to seek second opinions when necessary. Additionally, Saint Teresa

Fr. Timothy Reid relays Saint Teresa’s practical advice on spiritual love, emphasizing its disinterested nature and its focus on the beloved’s progress in the love of God, contrasting it with earthly affection. He also discusses the importance of detachment from worldly attachments, including family, to fully devote oneself to God.