John of the Cross (1542–1591), born Juan de Yepes Álvarez, was a Spanish mystic, Catholic saint, Carmelite friar and priest, born at Fontiveros, Old Castile. Saint John of the Cross was a reformer of the Carmelite order, urging them to return to a life of prayer. He is considered, along with Saint Teresa of Ávila, as a founder of the Discalced Carmelites, men and women who dedicated themselves to a life of prayer. He is known for writing Ascent of Mount Carmel, Dark Night of the Soul, and A Spiritual Canticle of the Soul and the Bridegroom Christ. Show Less