Doctors of the Church - St. John of Avila

The Apostle of Andalusia

John of Avila, was born in Almodovar del Campo, in the Provence of Ciudad Real, on the 6th of January in the year of 1499. His parents, Catalina Xixon and Alfonso de Avila, where a devote Catholic couple. His parents had the means to send him to the University of Salamanca to study Law. He was confronted during his studies in Salamanca and left without a law degree. After some time, he enrolled into the University of Alcala. Under the wings of the Dominican friar Domingo de Soto, he received his bachelor’s degree in philosophy and theology.

During his time in school his parents died and they left him substantial inheritance. Thereafter, he liquidated the assets and gave the money to the poor. His spiritual desire was in missionary work. After he was ordained a priest in the spring of 1526, he set his eyes on Tlaxcala. However, while in Seville the Archbishop saw in him the opportunity to evangelize in Andalusia. 

The young priest went on to make missionary contributions; creating a following of disciples; establishing schools and colleges in Andalusia. Some of his note worthy disciples include the Jesuits. He became spiritual adviser to other Saints. These include St. Teresa of Avila, St. John of the Cross and others. 

St. John of Avila died on the 10th of May, 1569 in the city of Montilla in Cordoba. His remains are located in the Jesuit Church of the Incarnation.

Jaime Gonzalez
Faith Formation Commission Member