The return to an ethic of virtues in dialogue with the moral tradition of Medicine and biomedical ethics is the backbone of Pellegrino's proposed reform of medical ethics. The question why this author proposes this reform is answered in this paper that summarizes his book "The Christian Virtues in Medical Practice". Perceiving the changes in the practice of medicine in their country, Pellegrino and Thomasma, men of deep faith, concerned about the darkening of medical conscience and the intuition of danger to the Christian faith, they address the commitment of Christian physicians and those who join them in the mode and form of practicing medicine. Deeply loyal to the Gospel message, the book represents a wake-up call to the conscience of believing professionals, leading to a demanding, enriching and committed vision of the practice of medicine.