Which saint is known for reforming the Carmelite order during the Reformation period?

St. Teresa of Avila is renowned for her significant contributions to the reform of the Carmelite order during the Reformation period. In the 16th century, she initiated a movement to return to a more austere and contemplative lifestyle, which emphasized prayer, simplicity, and a deeper commitment to the spiritual life. Her reforms led to the establishment of the Discalced Carmelites, a branch of the Carmelite order that sought to live out these ideals, focusing on a more strict adherence to the rule of the order and enhancing the contemplative aspect of their lives.

St. Teresa's writings, particularly her spiritual classics like "The Interior Castle" and "The Way of Perfection," also played a crucial role in shaping not only Carmelite spirituality but also the broader context of Christian mysticism during the Reformation. Her emphasis on personal experience of God and inner transformation resonated with many who sought a deeper relationship with the divine, making her a pivotal figure in the religious landscape of her time. This is why St. Teresa of Avila is correctly identified as the saint associated with the reform of the Carmelite order during this critical period in history.