Can you imagine monks kidnapping and imprisoning one of their fellow monks?
Well, it happened to St. John of the Cross, a sixteenth-century Spanish mystic. His brothers didn’t like his attempts to reform their lifestyle, so they threw him in prison.
During his imprisonment, John began to compose poems. His poetry is still considered among the finest Spanish literature, filled with rich imagery and profound spiritual insights, especially about the union with God that comes through contemplative prayer.
Watch this short video to get to know St. John of the Cross. As you watch, reflect on the goal of contemplative prayer, which is union with God, and what is necessary before this union can take place. The video was made for teens and adults.