Saint John of the Cross

Today we celebrate the Feast of Saint John of the Cross who is a Carmelite contemplative mystic born in 1542 in Spain. He was a close spiritual friend of Saint Teresa of Avila and with her guidance, he introduced the reform to the Carmelite Order of Friars. The reform consisted of reverting back to living the Carmelite vocation and the evangelical counsels of chastity, poverty and obedience as they were formulated in the Rule of Saint Albert in the 1200's. 
Saint John was not only a contemplative but he was a poet and a writer. His works have inspired many generations of mystics both Christian and non-Christian. Popular among his writings are "The Spiritual Canticle" which is based on the Book of Song of Songs where the soul is depicted as the bride who is seeking to be reunited with her bridegroom who is God. Two of his other works which are also popular are "The Ascent to Mount Carmel" and "The Living Flames of Love" which discusses the soul seeking union with God.  Finally "The Dark Night of the Soul" was written by Saint John when he was in the prison during the time of inquisition. He was suspected of deviating from the Church teachings in introducing the reforms to the order which required strict observance of the Rules of Saint Albert and his own brothers of the Carmelite order locked him up in a cell for several months. In this book Saint John of the Cross writes about the soul that is unable to feel the presence of God but knows by faith that God is present. This leaves the soul is a spiritual dryness which is very painful spiritual suffering. God allows souls to experience the dark night for the strengthening and growth of the soul. 
Saint John of Cross eventually escaped from prison after nine months and was successful in implementing the reforms of Saint Teresa Avila among the friars. 
Saint John of the Cross pray for us, especially those who are going through the dark night of the soul at this moment!