Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament

October 17, 2026

When we open ourselves to God in a truly committed relationship—one marked by courage, sincerity, and dependence on the Holy Spirit rather than fear—the Holy Spirit works within us. It strengthens us in our times of need.

Jesus wanted His disciples to identify openly with Him, even when it was difficult or unpopular. To acknowledge Christ is to trust Him, follow Him, and never be ashamed of Him. Out of fear, Peter denied Jesus three times. Yet when he realized what he had done, he repented and was forgiven.

During Jesus’ time on Earth, many people misunderstood Him. Some viewed Him merely as a teacher or a prophet. Jesus taught that such ignorance or misunderstanding could be forgiven when a person later repents and believes.

However, Jesus also spoke of certain religious leaders who witnessed his miracles and deliberately claimed that his power came from evil rather than from God. They refused to recognize Him as the Son of Man. These leaders were not simply confused; they knowingly rejected and distorted what they understood to be God’s work.

This willful rejection of God’s truth and the Holy Spirit’s witness is the essence of corruption against the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit’s role is to reveal who Jesus is, lead people to repentance, and help them understand God’s truth. If a person continually rejects the Spirit and hardens their heart against it, they cut themselves off from the very source of forgiveness.

Jesus also promises that God will be present with his followers during times of persecution and trial. The Holy Spirit will provide the wisdom, courage, and guidance needed to remain faithful and to speak the truth.

Trust the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Keep Christ at the center, deepen your relationship with God through prayer and the Eucharist, and as you grow in grace, the Spirit will draw you closer to the Holy Trinity.

On this day in 1834, Father Eymard was appointed the assistant priest at the parish in Chatte.

Let Us Pray:

Lord, help us to trust in the Holy Spirit and to turn to Him in times of need and trial. Strengthen us to persevere in faith, and through the Eucharist, deepen our relationship with You and with the Holy Trinity. May Your grace guide us each day and draw us ever closer to Your love. Amen.