Feast DayJuly 12th
Sts. Louis and Zélie Martin, a remarkable couple whose unwavering faith and deep love for God set a shining example for all. As devout Catholics and loving parents, they nurtured the spirit of holiness within their family, producing the beloved Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, ‘The Little Flower.’ Through their remarkable journey, Louis and Zélie embody the Carmelite spirit of contemplation and devotion, offering profound insights into the beauty of family life and the pursuit of sanctity in everyday moments. Join us as we explore their lives, spirituality, and enduring legacy, and discover how their story continues to inspire and enrich our faith today.”
AWOC Order of Carmelites
Sts. Louis Martin and Zélie Martin:
Sts. Louis Martin and Zélie Martin were a French Catholic couple who are best known as the parents of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, also known as “The Little Flower.” They are venerated as saints in the Catholic Church and are considered a model of holiness in married life.
Louis Martin was born on August 22, 1823, and Zélie Guérin was born on December 23, 1831. They were both deeply devout Catholics and were devoted to their family and faith. Louis worked as a watchmaker, and Zélie ran a successful lace-making business. They were known for their kindness, generosity, and commitment to raising their children in the Catholic faith.
Louis and Zélie were married on July 12, 1858, in Alençon, France. They had nine children, but tragically, four of them died in infancy. Despite these hardships, they remained faithful to their Christian values and embraced their vocation as parents.
Their youngest daughter, Thérèse Martin, went on to become one of the most beloved and influential Catholic saints of the 19th and 20th centuries. Thérèse entered the Carmelite convent at a young age and wrote her famous autobiography, “The Story of a Soul,” which has had a profound impact on Catholic spirituality.
Louis and Zélie Martin are significant not only for their role as the parents of a saint but also for their own exemplary lives of faith, love, and service. They were canonized as saints by Pope Francis on October 18, 2015, becoming the first married couple to be canonized together in the Catholic Church. Their feast day is celebrated on July 12th, the anniversary of their wedding. They serve as an inspiration for couples and families seeking to live out their faith in their daily lives.