“The closer we are to Jesus, the better we will know His thirst.” — St. Teresa of Calcutta

This profound statement invites us into the heart of Christian discipleship. Jesus’ cry, “I thirst” (John 19:28), was not merely a physical expression but a revelation of His longing for souls, for love, and for the salvation of humanity.

To draw close to Jesus is to enter into intimacy with Him through prayer, the sacraments, the Word of God, and service. In this closeness, our hearts are gradually shaped to recognize what He desires and whom He longs to reach.

Knowing the thirst of Christ leads us beyond ourselves. It calls us to compassionate service, pastoral sensitivity, and humble availability. It reminds us that mission is not first about doing many things, but about loving deeply, with Christ’s own heart.

For the Missionary Society of Divine Paraclete, this motto animates our spirituality and apostolate. It urges us to remain close to Christ so that our service may flow from love, not ambition, and from prayer, not mere activity.