31 min

St. John of Avila, Part 2 – The Doctors of the Church: The Charism of Wisdom with Dr. Matthew Bunson – Discerning Hearts Podcast Discerning Hearts - Catholic Podcasts

    • Christianity

St. John of Avila, Part 2 – The Doctors of the Church: The Charism of Wisdom with Dr. Matthew Bunson



* Born: January 6, 1499, Almodóvar del Campo, Spain

* Died: May 10, 1569, Montilla, Spain



With Dr. Matthew Bunson and Kris McGregor, they continue delve into the life and impact of St. John of Avila, known as the Master. With his extraordinary preaching abilities, which drew large congregations and emphasized the importance of the sacrament of reconciliation, Dr. Bunson tells us the blend of eloquence and deep scriptural understanding in John’s homilies, and his profound study of scripture as the foundation for his preaching. Despite facing opposition from some clergy and the wealthy, John’s preaching focused on reform, care for the poor, and renewal of the priesthood.

They also explore John’s year-long investigation by the Inquisition, during which he deepened his understanding of St. Paul’s letters. Following his acquittal, John continued his mission, preaching and establishing schools and seminaries. His influence extended to other saints, such as John of God and Francis Borja, and he played a significant role in supporting the Society of Jesus.

Despite delays in his recognition, Pope Benedict XVI named him a Doctor of the Church in 2012, emphasizing his role as a model for priests and his enduring relevance in guiding the faithful.



Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions



* The Power of Humility: How does St. John of Avila’s humility shine through in his life and teachings, particularly in his interactions with the clergy and the wealthy?

* The Role of Study in Preaching: Reflect on the significance of combining eloquence with deep scriptural understanding, as exemplified by St. John of Avila. How can this blend of study and spiritual insight inform modern preaching?

* Facing Adversity with Faith: Discuss how St. John of Avila responded to the challenges he faced, including his year-long investigation by the Inquisition. How did his faith and commitment to prayer sustain him during difficult times?

* The Call to Reform and Renewal: Explore St. John of Avila’s emphasis on reform, care for the poor, and renewal of the priesthood. How can his teachings inspire contemporary efforts towards ecclesial renewal and social justice?

* The Influence of Spiritual Role Models: Consider the impact of spiritual role models like St. John of Avila on the lives of other saints, such as John of God and Francis Borja. How can the examples of holy men and women inspire us in our own spiritual journeys?

* Embracing the Sacramental Life: Reflect on St. John of Avila’s devotion to the Eucharist and the sacrament of reconciliation. How can his example encourage us to deepen our own participation in these sacraments and our understanding of their significance in our lives?

* The Virtue of Perseverance: Explore the delayed recognition of St. John of Avila’s sanctity and the eventual declaration of him as a Doctor of the Church. How does his journey of perseverance and patient waiting for recognition resonate with our own experiences of waiting for God’s timing in our lives?







From Vatican.va, an excerpt from the teachings of Pope Benedict XVI

From the General Audience on St. John of Avila:

“Master Avila was not a university professor, although he had organized and served as the first ...

St. John of Avila, Part 2 – The Doctors of the Church: The Charism of Wisdom with Dr. Matthew Bunson



* Born: January 6, 1499, Almodóvar del Campo, Spain

* Died: May 10, 1569, Montilla, Spain



With Dr. Matthew Bunson and Kris McGregor, they continue delve into the life and impact of St. John of Avila, known as the Master. With his extraordinary preaching abilities, which drew large congregations and emphasized the importance of the sacrament of reconciliation, Dr. Bunson tells us the blend of eloquence and deep scriptural understanding in John’s homilies, and his profound study of scripture as the foundation for his preaching. Despite facing opposition from some clergy and the wealthy, John’s preaching focused on reform, care for the poor, and renewal of the priesthood.

They also explore John’s year-long investigation by the Inquisition, during which he deepened his understanding of St. Paul’s letters. Following his acquittal, John continued his mission, preaching and establishing schools and seminaries. His influence extended to other saints, such as John of God and Francis Borja, and he played a significant role in supporting the Society of Jesus.

Despite delays in his recognition, Pope Benedict XVI named him a Doctor of the Church in 2012, emphasizing his role as a model for priests and his enduring relevance in guiding the faithful.



Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions



* The Power of Humility: How does St. John of Avila’s humility shine through in his life and teachings, particularly in his interactions with the clergy and the wealthy?

* The Role of Study in Preaching: Reflect on the significance of combining eloquence with deep scriptural understanding, as exemplified by St. John of Avila. How can this blend of study and spiritual insight inform modern preaching?

* Facing Adversity with Faith: Discuss how St. John of Avila responded to the challenges he faced, including his year-long investigation by the Inquisition. How did his faith and commitment to prayer sustain him during difficult times?

* The Call to Reform and Renewal: Explore St. John of Avila’s emphasis on reform, care for the poor, and renewal of the priesthood. How can his teachings inspire contemporary efforts towards ecclesial renewal and social justice?

* The Influence of Spiritual Role Models: Consider the impact of spiritual role models like St. John of Avila on the lives of other saints, such as John of God and Francis Borja. How can the examples of holy men and women inspire us in our own spiritual journeys?

* Embracing the Sacramental Life: Reflect on St. John of Avila’s devotion to the Eucharist and the sacrament of reconciliation. How can his example encourage us to deepen our own participation in these sacraments and our understanding of their significance in our lives?

* The Virtue of Perseverance: Explore the delayed recognition of St. John of Avila’s sanctity and the eventual declaration of him as a Doctor of the Church. How does his journey of perseverance and patient waiting for recognition resonate with our own experiences of waiting for God’s timing in our lives?







From Vatican.va, an excerpt from the teachings of Pope Benedict XVI

From the General Audience on St. John of Avila:

“Master Avila was not a university professor, although he had organized and served as the first ...

31 min