Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament

October 15, 2026

Memorial of Saint Teresa of Jesus, Virgin and Doctor of the Church

In today’s first reading, Saint Paul reminds us that God has chosen us in Christ, adopted us as his children, and redeemed us by his blood. This grace is given to each of us in Baptism.

Reflecting on the day he received this sacrament, Saint Peter Julian Eymard wrote: “I understood what it is: a new creation in our Lord Jesus Christ, a second life in Jesus Christ, but in Jesus crucified.”^[1]

Baptism gives us not merely a new name, but a new life. It is a life in which we allow Christ crucified to put the old self to death—especially our pride, hypocrisy, and resistance to the truth.

The Gospel shows the scholars of the law building tombs for the prophets, yet refusing to welcome the word of God that was challenging them through Jesus himself. They honored the witnesses of the past but rejected the truth in the present. Therefore, their outward piety could not renew their hearts.

Those who have been reborn in Christ crucified must have the courage to let the word of God correct and transform them. Saint Teresa, whom the Church honors today, found this strength in prayer: living in friendship with Christ, remaining with him in truth, and allowing his love to transform her.

Let us pray:

Lord Jesus crucified, renew in us the grace of our Baptism and help us die to our old selves. Give us the courage to welcome your truth, even when it challenges us. Through prayer, draw us into deeper friendship with you and transform our lives by your love. Amen.

1. Saint Peter Julian Eymard, “The Grace of My Baptism,” Retreat Notes, Second or Great Retreat of Rome, February 5, 1865, p. 90 (revised), cited in The Importance of the Life of Baptism for Saint Peter Julian Eymard, Session IV, Part 1, p. 38, Province of Saint Ann. ↑