Abstract
In 1562, Teresa de Jesus founded the first of seventeen reformed (discalced) Carmelite convents and drafted the first of a series of monastic constitutions designed to promote certain ideals-above all, the opportunity for nuns to practice mental prayer, through which they might act as agents of spiritual renewal for a church in crisis. This article analyzes Teresa's innovations in governance; among them, a crucial role for prioresses in spiritual guidance and in discernment-a charism generally restricted to priests. Within ten years of Teresa's death in 1582, the Constitutions were revised in ways that seriously curtailed the provisions designed to protect the discalced feminine magisterium. Despite conditions which could induce acute psychological distress, the Carmelite reform did for a brief time allow some nuns enhanced opportunities for self-actualization as spiritual teachers and healers.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
