St. Teresa of Ávila on Prayer as Friendship
Teresa of Ávila, a Carmelite nun, emphasized the importance of daily conversation with God in achieving holiness.
Prayer is nothing else than being on terms of friendship with God.
She viewed mental prayer as an intimate sharing between friends, requiring frequent alone time with God. According to Teresa, making time for this friendship is the starting point and often the most challenging part.
Some of her powerful quotes highlight the role of prayer in deepening our contact with Christ and inspiring action in the real world.
- “Mental prayer in my opinion is nothing else than an intimate sharing between friends; it means taking time frequently to be alone with him who we know loves us.”
Teresa's wisdom on prayer continues to guide believers in their spiritual journeys.
Author's summary: Teresa of Ávila views prayer as a friendship with God.