Blessed Teresa Of The Child Jesus And Of Saint John Of The Cross

Biography

Blessed Teresa of the Child Jesus and of Saint John of the Cross, also known as Eusebia García y García, was born on 5 March 1909 in Mochales, Guadalajara, Spain. She was the second of eight children born to Juan and Eulalia García. As a young child, Teresa frequently visited her uncle Florentino, a priest, who later became a martyr during the Spanish Civil War.

At the tender age of nine, Teresa made personal vows of chastity and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Her spiritual journey continued to deepen, and in 1918, she moved to an Ursuline boarding school. During her time there, she came across the autobiography Story of a Soul by Saint Therese of Lisieux, which strongly resonated with her. This encounter sparked a profound desire within Teresa to embrace the Carmelite way of life.

Following her calling, Teresa joined the Discalced Carmelites on 2 May 1925 at the Carmel of San José de Guadalajara. She took the name Teresa of the Child Jesus and of Saint John of the Cross. Throughout her religious life, Teresa exhibited great devotion to the Eucharist, often spending her free time in deep prayer and adoration. She described this experience as "sunbathing" in the light of the Eucharist while praying fervently for priests and the conversion of souls.

On 6 March 1930, Teresa made her solemn vows, fully dedicating herself to a life of poverty, chastity, and obedience. She was known for her musical talents and served as an organist within the Carmel community.

Tragically, the Spanish Civil War erupted, bringing persecution and violence. On 24 July 1936, Teresa was martyred on the streets of Guadalajara. A mob that confronted her offered her freedom if she would renounce her faith and proclaim allegiance to communism. Fearlessly, she replied, "Viva Christo Rey!" (Long live Christ the King!), refusing to deny her beliefs.

Recognizing her heroic virtue and martyrdom, Teresa was venerated on 22 March 1986 by Pope John Paul II. She was beatified on 29 March 1987, still being celebrated on her feast day of 24 July.

Blessed Teresa of the Child Jesus and of Saint John of the Cross serves as an inspiration to all for her unwavering faith, dedication to prayer, and her courageous witness in the face of adversity.