Experiência espiritual integradora em Teresa de Jesus: um itinerário de acompanhamento para nossos dias

Abstract

This thesis aims to present, based on Teresian writings, contributions from the integrative experience of Teresa of Jesus with the aim of offering an itinerary of spiritual accompaniment for those who accompany a person. The first part deals with the integration process that the Saint achieved, both with herself, with people and with God. In this sense, to understand her life and actions, we explore the main influences: the social, political, economic, religious, family context, as well as theological and spiritual currents. It is through her existential discovery, in the encounter with Jesus Christ and his humanity, that she reaches integration in all its dimensions. The second part focuses on the account of the mystical experience of the Saint, which integrates her from the inside and drives her to the mission. Next, the research presents the influences of this experience on her life and on her spirituality. Teresian writings narrate the process of struggles, discoveries, passions, conversions, culminating in the story of love and passion, which led her to an existential encounter with Jesus Christ, making her a fully human and holy woman. It is from her experience of relationship with the Christian mystique that she begins to deal with her own existence. Therefore, she dares to multiply knowledge, prioritizing the training of people and leaders. The third part presents Teresa de Jesus' relationship with elements of nature in her way of prayer and with pedagogical applicability. We know that it is the mission of the followers of Jesus Christ, not only to care for human beings, but for all life created by God. Therefore, in the sequence, elements of Laudato Si and some theologians of the Theology of Latin America are listed who, like the Saint, emphasize the integration of human beings in their contact with creation and with God. The fourth and last part seeks to elaborate an itinerary of spiritual accompaniment for those who wish to accompany a person who seeks to follow a prayer path, based on the mystagogue Teresa de Jesus and her integrative spiritual experience. The research shows that Teresian spirituality can be considered a prophetic legacy for current anxieties and needs, as it is integrative and transformative.