Feast Day October 1St
Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, known as the “Little Flower.” Saint Thérèse’s extraordinary devotion to God and her “Little Way” of finding holiness in simplicity have left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire countless individuals on their spiritual journeys.
AWOC Order of Carmelites
Saint Thérèse of Lisieux:
The Little Flower of God’s Love
Biography:
Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, also known as Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face, was born Marie Françoise-Thérèse Martin on January 2, 1873, in Alençon, France. She would go on to become one of the most beloved and influential saints in the Catholic Church. Thérèse’s life was marked by a profound simplicity and an unwavering devotion to God. Her spiritual journey, though brief, left an indelible mark on Christian spirituality and continues to inspire millions around the world.
Thérèse entered the Carmelite convent at the young age of 15, aspiring to lead a life of radical love and self-surrender to God. Her spirituality, often referred to as the “Little Way,” emphasized the importance of finding holiness in the ordinary and mundane aspects of life. She saw every act of love, no matter how small, as an opportunity to draw closer to God.
Quotes from St. Thérèse of Lisieux:
“Miss no single opportunity of making some small sacrifice, here by a smiling look, there by a kindly word; always doing the smallest right and doing it all for love.”
“The splendor of the rose and the whiteness of the lily do not rob the little violet of its scent nor the daisy of its simple charm. If every tiny flower wanted to be a rose, spring would lose its loveliness.”
“I will spend my heaven doing good on earth.”
Thérèse’s autobiography, “Story of a Soul,” which she wrote under obedience to her superiors, revealed the depth of her spiritual insights and her profound love for God. Her writings continue to be cherished and studied by people of all faiths.
Despite her brief life, Saint Thérèse’s impact was profound. She once said, “I want to spend my heaven doing good on earth,” and indeed, she has done so through her intercession and the countless lives she has touched.
Thérèse of Lisieux died of tuberculosis on September 30, 1897, at the age of 24. Just a few years later, her cause for canonization began, and she was declared a saint on May 17, 1925, by Pope Pius XI. Her feast day is celebrated on October 1st.
Bibliography:
- “Story of a Soul: The Autobiography of St. Thérèse of Lisieux” – Translated by John Clarke
- “The Little Way for Every Day: Thoughts from Therese of Lisieux” – compiled by St. Thérèse of Lisieux
- “Thérèse of Lisieux: God’s Gentle Warrior” by Thomas R. Nevin
- “The Complete Works of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux: Letters, Poems, Prayers, and a Biography” – Translated by Father John Clarke