SAINT TERESA OF AVILA: 50 YEARS DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH

Abstract

This article addresses the proclamation of St. Teresa of Avila as a Doctor of the Church in 1970. It expands on some of the meanings of this event for theology,especially for the relationship between this knowledge and women. It begins by presenting the fi gure of Saint Teresa based on some characteristics of her humanity, in line with the homily of Paul VI in her proclamation as a Doctor of the Church. Then, it brings historical aspects of the importance of Teresian doctrine for Christian spirituality. After that, it explains the theological foundations that enabled the recognition of women’s doctorate in the 20th century, and gives the reasons for the Teresian doctorate, in contrast with the misogyny experienced by Saint Teresa in her historical time. It concludes with the explanations of this event for theology.