Peter of Alcántara (1499–1562,) born Pedro Garavita, was a Spanish Franciscan friar, mystic, and reformer known for his austere lifestyle and contributions to religious renewal. He guided Saint Teresa of Ávila in her Carmelite reform.
Born in Alcántara, Spain, he studied at the University of Salamanca before joining the Franciscan Order at 16. Embracing rigorous asceticism, he practiced extreme fasting and sleep deprivation, earning a reputation for holiness and discipline.
Peter became Minister Provincial of the Franciscan Province of St. Gabriel (1538) but resigned due to opposition to his strict reforms. He later founded the Discalced Franciscans, emphasizing poverty, solitude, and prayer. His reforms gained papal approval, leading to friaries across Spain and Portugal.
His notable work, Tratado de la oración y meditación (1556, Treatise on Prayer and Meditation,) became a spiritual guide for contemplative life, influencing Saint Teresa of Ávila. He was canonized in 1669 and remains the patron saint of Brazil and Eucharistic adoration.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Peter of Alcantara
The trouble is that everyone talks about reforming others and no one thinks about reforming himself.
—Peter of Alcantara
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