Saint John of the Cross

Saint John of the Cross was born as Juan de Yepes Álvarez to a poor family in Fontiveros, Spain.

John's father, Gonzalo de Yepes, died, leaving the family in poverty.

John and his family moved to Medina del Campo, where he received basic education and worked as a hospital orderly.

John began his studies at the Jesuit College of Saint Lawrence in Medina del Campo, focusing on humanities and philosophy.

John entered the Carmelite Order at the Carmelite monastery in Medina del Campo, taking the name John of St. Matthias.

John was ordained as a priest and began his ministry within the Carmelite Order.

John met Teresa of Ávila, who inspired him to join the Discalced Carmelite reform movement.

John, along with Teresa of Ávila, founded the first Discalced Carmelite monastery in Duruelo, Spain.

John became the prior of the Carmelite community in Ávila, deepening his spiritual and administrative roles.

John began writing his famous spiritual works, including 'The Ascent of Mount Carmel' and 'The Dark Night of the Soul.'

John was imprisoned by the Carmelite authorities in Toledo for his involvement in the Discalced reform movement.

John escaped from his imprisonment in Toledo and rejoined the Discalced Carmelites.

John was elected as the Provincial Superior of the Discalced Carmelites in Andalusia, expanding his leadership role.

John wrote 'The Living Flame of Love,' one of his most profound mystical works, further enriching his spiritual legacy.

Saint John of the Cross died in Ubeda, Spain, leaving behind a rich legacy of spiritual writings and reform.