Saint Thérèse of Lisieux
- Born:
- Marie Françoise-Thérèse Martin, January 2, 1873, Alençon, France
- Died:
- September 30, 1897, Lisieux, France
- Nationality:
- French
- Profession(s):
- Carmelite Nun, Mystic, Writer, Doctor of the Church
Early Life and Education
- Youngest of nine children, although only five survived infancy.
- Mother died when she was four, deeply impacting her early life.
- Educated primarily at home and by the Benedictine nuns of Lisieux.
- Experienced a profound religious conversion at age 14 after praying before a statue of the Virgin Mary.
Career and Major Achievements
- Entered the Carmelite monastery of Lisieux at the age of 15.
- Lived a cloistered life dedicated to prayer, penance, and contemplation.
- Developed her "Little Way" of spiritual childhood, emphasizing humility, simplicity, and trust in God's love.
- Served as novice mistress, guiding new entrants to the order.
- Even while dying, she fostered prayer for priests in particular. Many have found the writings and life of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux prayer for priests a source of inspiration and guidance.
Notable Works
- Story of a Soul (L'Histoire d'une Âme): Her autobiography, compiled from her childhood writings, Carmelite recollections, and last conversations.
- Numerous poems and plays written for community celebrations.
- A collection of her letters, providing insights into her spiritual development.
Legacy and Impact
Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, also known as "The Little Flower," is one of the most popular and beloved saints of the modern era. Her "Little Way" of spiritual childhood continues to inspire people around the world to find holiness in everyday life and to trust in God's boundless mercy.
Honors and Recognition
- Beatified by Pope Pius XI in 1923.
- Canonized by Pope Pius XI in 1925.
- Declared a Doctor of the Church by Pope John Paul II in 1997.
- Patron saint of missions, florists, and people suffering from tuberculosis.