← [[essential-themes-f1a|The Essential Themes for Formation I, Year A]] | [[formation-I-a-handbook|Table of Contents]] | [[session-02-f1a|Prayer for Apostolic Purpose]] → # Introduction — an Overview of the Life of St. Teresa of Ávila “Let Nothing Disturb You, Let Nothing Frighten You, All Things Pass Away; God Never Changes Patience obtains all things. He who has God lacks nothing; God alone suffices.” — St Teresa of Avila Required Reading: The Book of her Life Introduction (Appendix B). Biographical Timeline – St Teresa of Avila (Appendix C). Additional Reading for the Formator: Life: 9:1-3 26:5 Essential Points to Discuss: Briefly go through the biographical timeline of St Teresa and highlight the important events and turning points in her life. • An overview of Teresa’s personality and family life • The impact of reading The Third Spiritual Alphabet by Francisco Osuna • Entering the convent and various ongoing illnesses • Her spiritual struggle and radical conversion (her prayer to the Suffering Christ) • Her personal desire for holiness; founding of St Joseph monastery in Avila • Meeting St John of the Cross • Appointed prioress of the Incarnation; brings in St John of the Cross as confessor • Index of forbidden books and Teresa’s response: “His Majesty had become the true book in which I saw the truths” • Teresa’s death; honors given by the Church Note to the Formator: Please mention to the candidates that the large ceremonial scapular is worn for Carmelite activities or when representing the Order or OCDS Community at a religious event. The small brown scapular (or the scapular medal) is worn for everyday use. The “OCDS” designation is not added to a member’s name until that person makes the First Promise at the end of Formation I. If there are related provincial or community policies in place, share these with the candidates at this time. 7 01.24 1-24-2024 OCDS Formation I, Year A Assigned Meditative Reading: Weekly topics: (once per week, choose one for each week) Gospel of St John, chapter 15 • I am the vine, you are the branches. • As the Father has loved me, so I love you – you are no longer servants but friends. • You did not choose me; I have chosen you – bear fruit that will last. • You do not belong to the world. 8 --- **Source:** Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites, *Formation I Year A: The Way of Perfection* (US National Formation Program, 2024).