Saint of the Day: St. Therese of Child Jesus | October 1

By SIDTP SoCom

Published on October 1, 2024

St. Thérèse of Lisieux, also known as St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face, is one of the most beloved saints in the Catholic Church. Born on January 2, 1873, in Alençon, France, Thérèse is renowned for her deep spirituality and her “little way” of holiness.

Thérèse was the youngest of nine children in the Martin family, though only five of her siblings survived to adulthood. Her family was deeply religious, and Thérèse’s early life was marked by a strong devotion to God. At a young age, she experienced a series of profound spiritual insights that shaped her understanding of faith and devotion.

In 1888, at the age of 15, Thérèse entered the Carmelite convent in Lisieux, where she would spend the rest of her life. Despite her youth, she was admitted to the cloistered community due to her profound sense of calling and her determination. Life in the convent was marked by a strong emphasis on prayer, contemplation, and simplicity.

Thérèse is most famous for her spiritual writings, particularly her autobiography, “Story of a Soul” (“Histoire d’une âme”). In this work, she outlines her “little way” of spirituality, which emphasizes the importance of small acts of love and trust in God. Thérèse believed that holiness could be achieved through everyday actions done with love and a sense of humility. Her approach to spirituality was accessible and profound, and it has inspired countless people seeking to live out their faith in ordinary life.

During her time in the convent, Thérèse faced physical suffering due to illness, including tuberculosis, which ultimately led to her early death on September 30, 1897, at the age of 24. Despite her suffering, she remained committed to her spiritual life and offered her trials in union with the suffering of Christ.

Thérèse’s impact was recognized shortly after her death. Her writings and spiritual insights resonated deeply with people both within and outside the Church. She was beatified in 1923 and canonized in 1925 by Pope Pius XI. In 1997, Pope John Paul II declared her a Doctor of the Church, a rare honor given to those whose teachings have significantly contributed to Christian theology.

St. Thérèse is the patron saint of missionaries, despite never having traveled outside of France, due to her deep spiritual commitment and the influence of her prayers. Her feast day is celebrated on October 1st.

Her legacy continues to inspire those who seek to live a life of holiness through simple acts of love and faith. St. Thérèse of Lisieux remains a powerful example of how deep spiritual truths can be lived out in the everyday moments of life.

 

Sources:
1. Thérèse of Lisieux. Story of a Soul. Translated by John Clarke, ICS Publications, 1975.
2. D’Elbée, Jean. Thérèse of Lisieux: A Transforming Grace. Tan Books, 1995.