7 Inspiring Saint Therese of Lisieux Quotes
7 Saint Therese of Lisieux Quotes
The following are some of our favourite Saint Therese of Lisieux quotes;
- “Sanctity does not mean this or that practice, it consists in a disposition of the heart which makes us humble and little in God’s arms, aware of our weakness and confident even to the audacity in the goodness of our Father.”
- “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."
- "Nothing is insignificant or negligible in the service of God.”
- “Sufferings gladly borne for others convert more people than sermons.”
- “Remember that nothing is small in the eyes of God. Do all that you do with love.”
- “A soul in a state of grace has nothing to fear of demons who are cowards.”
- “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.”
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Saint Therese of Lisieux, affectionately known as "The Little Flower," is a figure whose spiritual insights and profound simplicity have touched the hearts of millions worldwide. Born in the late 19th century in France, her short life, marked by a deep and transformative spirituality, has left an indelible mark on Christian faith and practice. We look at the life of Saint Therese, her spiritual teachings, and the enduring legacy she has left for generations to come.
Early Life and Vocation
Marie-Françoise-Thérèse Martin was born on January 2, 1873, in Alençon, France, to Louis and Zélie Martin. The Martin family was notable for their deep Catholic faith and the loving bond they shared. Louis was a watchmaker, and Zélie was a lace maker. Their home was a place of piety and devotion, setting a strong spiritual foundation for their children.
Therese was the youngest of nine children, though only five siblings survived to adulthood. Her early years were marked by both joy and sorrow. At the tender age of four, Therese's mother, Zélie, passed away from breast cancer. This profound loss had a lasting impact on Therese, shaping her understanding of suffering and grace.
Despite the challenges of her early life, Therese's spiritual journey was marked by extraordinary devotion and mystical experiences. From a young age, she exhibited a profound love for God and an intuitive sense of the divine. Her early childhood was filled with vivid spiritual experiences that set the stage for her later religious life.
Therese’s desire to become a nun was evident from a young age. At just 15, she sought permission to enter the Carmelite convent in Lisieux, a request that was unusual given the typical age requirement of 16. Her determination was fueled by a deep sense of calling and a desire to dedicate her life entirely to God. Her father, initially hesitant, ultimately supported her decision, and Therese entered the convent on April 9, 1888.
Life in the Convent
Once in the Carmelite convent, Therese adopted the religious name "Sister Thérèse of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face." Her life in the convent was characterized by a profound commitment to prayer and spiritual discipline. Though she was young and often in ill health, Therese’s dedication to her religious duties was unwavering.
Life in the convent was not without its challenges. Therese struggled with illness throughout her time in the monastery, suffering from tuberculosis that would ultimately lead to her early death. Despite her frail health, she embraced her religious life with joy and enthusiasm. Her duties ranged from the mundane tasks of convent life to the more spiritual aspects of her vocation. She approached her work with a spirit of humility and love, embodying her belief in the sanctity of everyday actions.
One of Therese’s notable contributions to the convent was her writings. She kept a journal and wrote letters that reflected her deep spiritual insights and experiences. These writings would later be compiled into her autobiography, "Story of a Soul," which provides a window into her profound spirituality and her unique approach to religious life. Story of a Soul is available to buy at TAN books.
The Little Way
Central to Saint Therese's spirituality is her concept of the "Little Way." This approach to holiness is characterized by simplicity, humility, and a deep trust in God. Therese believed that sanctity could be achieved not through grand gestures or extraordinary deeds but through small, everyday acts of love and devotion.
The "Little Way" is based on the idea that God values the simple and humble acts of love performed by ordinary people. Therese believed that everyone, regardless of their social status or position in life, could attain holiness by embracing this approach. Her teachings emphasize that the path to God is not through self-aggrandizement but through the sincere and loving actions of daily life.
In "Story of a Soul," Therese articulates her spiritual philosophy with clarity and grace. She describes her desire to be a "little flower" in God’s garden, contributing to His glory through the simplest of acts. Therese’s approach to spirituality was revolutionary in its simplicity, offering a path to holiness that was accessible to all.
Trials and Triumphs
Therese’s life was not without its struggles. Her health began to decline significantly in her early twenties, and she suffered from the effects of tuberculosis, which eventually led to her death. Despite her suffering, Therese remained cheerful and dedicated to her spiritual practices. Her ability to face illness with courage and faith was a testament to her deep spiritual commitment.
Throughout her illness, Therese’s faith and trust in God remained unshaken. She continued to inspire those around her with her unwavering devotion and her ability to find joy in the midst of suffering. Her final writings reflect a profound sense of peace and acceptance, even as she faced the end of her life.
Therese’s final months were marked by a deep sense of spiritual fulfillment. She continued to write and offer guidance to those around her, sharing her insights and encouraging others to embrace the "Little Way." Her death on September 30, 1897, at the age of 24, was a significant loss to the Carmelite community and to all who knew her.
Canonization and Legacy
The impact of Saint Therese’s life and teachings was recognized soon after her death. She was beatified in 1923 and canonized in 1925 by Pope Pius XI. Her canonization was a testament to the profound influence of her life and her spiritual insights.
In 1927, Pope Pius XI declared Therese a Doctor of the Church, one of only a few women to receive this honor. This title is given to saints whose teachings have had a significant impact on Christian theology. Therese’s spiritual insights and her emphasis on the "Little Way" have made her a revered figure in the Catholic Church.
Saint Therese’s legacy extends far beyond her canonization. Her teachings continue to inspire and challenge people to live lives of simplicity, humility, and love. Her "Little Way" has become a cornerstone of Christian spirituality, encouraging individuals to find grace in the ordinary moments of life.
Therese’s influence is also evident in various religious and cultural contexts. Her life has inspired numerous religious organizations and movements dedicated to spreading her message. Her story has been featured in literature, art, and music, and her teachings continue to resonate with people of all backgrounds.
The Modern Relevance of Therese's Teachings
In today’s fast-paced and often turbulent world, the message of Saint Therese is more relevant than ever. Her emphasis on finding sanctity in everyday life offers a counterbalance to the pursuit of material success and the focus on external achievements. Therese’s teachings remind us that holiness can be found in the simplest of actions and that our daily interactions are opportunities to manifest divine love.
The "Little Way" encourages a shift in perspective, inviting people to approach their daily lives with a spirit of humility and gratitude. Therese’s teachings challenge us to see the divine in the ordinary and to find meaning in the small acts of kindness and love that we offer to others.
Moreover, Therese’s life serves as a model of how to face adversity with grace and faith. Her ability to maintain a positive and loving attitude despite her suffering is a powerful example for those facing their own challenges. Her story offers hope and encouragement, demonstrating that even in the midst of suffering, one can find peace and fulfillment through a deep connection with God.
Saint Therese of Lisieux, the "Little Flower," remains a beacon of faith and inspiration for people around the world. Her life, though brief, exemplifies the power of simplicity, humility, and love. Through her "Little Way," she has shown that holiness is not reserved for the extraordinary but can be found in the everyday moments of our lives.
Therese’s teachings continue to inspire and challenge us to live with a spirit of love and devotion, finding God in the small and ordinary moments of our existence. Her legacy is a testament to the profound impact that one life, lived with sincerity and faith, can have on the world.
Another favourite Saint of ours is Saint Philomena. Read about Saint Philomena in our blog.