(1515–1582) Spanish mystic who defied the Inquisition by welcoming Jewish converts into her Carmelite community. She taught that we develop our friendship with God in the friendships of community life. In her friendship with John of the Cross she was mentor, goad, critic, spiritual director (informally) and spiritual directee (formally). They helped one another carry on challenging visionary work despite hostile scrutiny from their own communities and the Inquisition. (October 15)