Teresa was not interested in her daily experiences per se but only inasmuch as they provided a mirror or window into God. Her regard for the humanity of Christ and her understanding of the human person were two sides of the same coin. In addition to her relationship with God, Teresa also recommended spiritual books, describing them as important aids to prayer. When vernacular books were prohibited, she wrote her own books to aid her sisters in their spiritual journeys.

Teresa of Avila’s theology offers an elevated, enticing vision of the human capacity for God.

Although Teresa had extraordinary experiences of God, she taught that ordinary prayer, like an intimate conversation with a friend, was available to all.

God revealed to Teresa that true humility is “to know what you can do and what I can do.”

Christ’s humanity, including his bodiliness, was never to be left behind. And Christ’s body made all human bodies sacred.

Although Teresa had extraordinary experiences of God, she taught that ordinary prayer, like an intimate conversation with a friend, was available to all.