St. Teresa of Avila--The First Mansion

Today is the feast of St. Teresa of Avila.  Although she is my saint for 2010, I have done almost no work on her in the past year.

Today I began to read her Interior Castle, which is a description of a vision she had of the 7 mansions, an allegory of the stages of union with God.

We enter the first of the seven rooms in the castle through prayer. Teresa says it is crucial to keep in mind to Whom we are praying and to turn our minds towards Him.  Contemplate Him, rather than focus our energy on contemplating ourselves and the cares of this world.

It is critical to keep in a state of grace and go to confession frequently.
Also, don't allow yourself to be too easily discouraged by a sense of false humility.

All are made for this union with God.

As I read more, I will post something about each room or mansion.