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

The Heart of True Holiness

“Today, Jesus reminds us that true holiness is not found in appearances or burdensome rules, but in a heart rooted in love — a truth beautifully lived by Saint Teresa of Jesus.”

In today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks very directly to the Pharisees and scholars of the law. 

He says, “Woe to you!” not because their religious practices are wrong, but because they have lost sight of what truly matters: love of God and justice toward others.

They tithe carefully, they love the seats of honor, they follow the rules — but Jesus points out that their hearts are not aligned with God’s priorities. Even worse, their example leads others astray, like “unseen graves” that spread impurity without anyone realizing it. And He warns the scholars for placing heavy burdens on others without helping them carry those burdens.

This Gospel is a reminder for us to examine our own lives: 

Are my religious practices flowing from a real love for God? 

Or have they become external routines, without interior conversion? Do I encourage others in faith, or do I sometimes make it harder for them?

Today we celebrate the Memorial of Saint Teresa of Jesus—St. Teresa of Ávila—one of the great mystics and reformers of the Church. She lived in a time when religious life often became routine and lacking fervor. Her response was not criticism, but deep prayer and interior renewal. She reminds us that holiness begins in the heart: through a living friendship with Christ.

Her famous words say it beautifully:

“Let nothing disturb you, let nothing frighten you.
All things are passing; God never changes.
Whoever has God lacks nothing. God alone suffices.”

Saint Teresa shows us what the Pharisees were missing: a heart fully centered on God.

As we continue this Mass, let us ask through her intercession for the grace to practice our faith with sincerity, mercy, and love—so that our example draws others closer to Christ, not away from Him.