John of Avila: Audi, Filia

The Classics of Western Spirituality

by John of Avila (Translator)

John of Avila (1499-1569) was a major figure in the ecclesial reform and spiritual renewal that finally came to pass in 16th-century Spain. In spite of discrimination because of his Jewish background, John had an excellent education at the Universities of Salamanca and Alcala, centers of Christian humanistic studies in Spain. As a diocesan priest in Andalusia, he labored as a preacher, confessor, spiritual director, catechist, evangelist, educator, and theologian. He knew and helped many saints including Ignatius of Loyola, Teresa of Avila, and John of God. Master Avila, as he was called, centered his efforts on the establishment of colleges and universities for the education of laity and priests and on reform of the priesthood. He also directed many religious and lay people. His spiritual masterpiece, the Audi, filia, is a guide to the spiritual life in which hearing the word of God in the Scriptures and contemplating the face of Christ, especially in his passion, leads to personal transformation in the communion of the Father and the Son. In many ways the book reflects the time in which it was written, but it also transcends it to provide direction for a faithful and mature Christian life in any age. †

Genres: Religion, Spirituality, Classics, Catholic, Christianity

352 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2006

About the author

John of Ávila (Spanish: Juan de Ávila; 6 January 1499[1]– 10 May 1569) was a Spanish priest, preacher, scholastic author, and religious mystic, who has been declared a saint and Doctor of the Church by the Catholic Church. He is called the "Apostle of Andalusia", for his extensive ministry in that region.

Reviews

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book, written by a 16th century Spanish priest, is addressed to a young girl seeking to strengthen her faith. The writer takes the Psalm beginning "Listen O Daughter" for his text, and uses the verses to discuss the major aspects of the spiritual life. I found his insights profound, and strikingly relevant to the present day. The book is less a commentary on the Psalm, however, and more a jumping off point for his discussion.

[Hank Hurley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fine book by the 16th century saint. It takes you from A to Z in building a stronger faith, and relying on God.

[Sarah Yasin]

this guy was really strict!

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Es un libro imprescindible en cada casa. Como el tener la Biblia y el Catecismo.