St John of the Cross

Mystic and Contemplative

"Known as the Mystic Doctor for his poetry and commentary about solitary prayer which entails steadfastly suffering aridity, misery, depression and spiritual abandonment, in addition to normal ascetic practices, in order to purify the soul in preparation for divine union with God." —from Little Blue Light

His Major Works:
Ascent of Mount Carmel (1619)
Dark Night of the Soul (1619)

Quotes by John of the Cross:

Concerning An Ecstasy Experienced In High Contemplation
"I entered into unknowing, and there I remained unknowing transcending all knowledge."

"That perfect knowledge was of peace and holiness held at no remove in profound solitude; it was something so secret that I was left stammering, transcending all knowledge."