May 4, 2011. (Romereports.com). Benedict XVI could appoint a new Doctor of the Church during World Youth Day in Madrid. According to the French Agency, I-Media, San Juan de Avila, considered one of the most influential Spanish saints from the XVI century,  could soon be appointed.


The title is given to certain saints to recognize them for their contribution to theology. Currently there are 33.

Members of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints are exploring this possibility.  But it must also be approved by the Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith.

San Juan de Ávila, was born in Almodóvar del Campo, near Toledo (Spain) in 1500 and died in 1569. He's known as the Apostle of Andalusia because he evangelized in the region. He was a strong advocate for the reform of the clergy and his writings were very influential in the Council of Trent.

He was a friend of San Juan de la Cruz and a spiritual adviser to St. Teresa of Avila. He's the patron of Spanish Clergy. His feast is celebrated on May 10.

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