Today’s gospel reading is Matthew 16:24-28, it is the feast of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross. Jesus instructs us to pick up our crosses and follow him. St. Teresa Benedicta does this an accomplished manner. Prior to becoming a Carmelite sister she lived as a Jewish woman, named Edith Stein. Further, she was a profound philosopher developing aspects of the philosophy titled phenomonology. This philosophy had a profound impact on Pope St. John Paul II.

Most of all, St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross was ultimately sent to a concentration camp during World War II, where she gave her life caring for those who were suffering.

St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, pray for us.