A Jubilee Year for St John of the Cross

From December 2025 through to December 2026, the Church is celebrating a Jubilee Year dedicated to St John of the Cross to mark the 3rd centenary of his canonisation, which took place in 1726, as well as the first centenary of his being declared a Doctor of the Church.

This makes it the perfect time to discover, or rediscover, the life, work and writings of a saint who contributed so richly to Carmel’s spirituality, and whose profound insights continue to help and guide many on the journey to union with God.

John’s writings include such spiritual masterpieces as The Dark Night, The Ascent of Mount Carmel, The Spiritual Canticle, and The Living Flame of Love. He also wrote highly inspired poetry and is regarded as one of Spain’s finest, mystical poets.

“Never give up prayer, and should you find dryness and difficulty, persevere in it for this very reason. God often desires to see what love your soul has, and love is not tried by ease and satisfaction.””
― John of the Cross