Thérèse of Lisieux art print

Thérèse of Lisieux art print

Dimensions
61cm x 40.7cm
Frame type
Box frame
20mm wide and 40mm deep

Thérèse of Lisieux, also known as Saint Thérèse of Lisieux or "The Little Flower", was a French Carmelite and Doctor of the Church. She was born Marie-Françoise-Thérèse Martin on January 2, 1873 in Alençon, France, and died on September 30, 1897, aged just 24. Despite her short life, Thérèse had a profound impact on Catholic spirituality and was declared a Doctor of the Church by Pope John Paul II in 1997.

Here are some key aspects of the life and work of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux:

1. Childhood and family:

Thérèse came from a devout Catholic family. Her parents, Louis and Zélie Martin, were also later canonized, making them one of the few saint families in the Catholic Church. Thérèse had four sisters, three of whom also pursued religious life.

2. Early calling:

Already at the age of 14, Thérèse felt a strong calling to religious life. She entered the Carmelite monastery of Lisieux, although she faced several rejections due to her age and health.

3. The Little Flower:

Thérèse is known as "The Little Flower" because of her spiritual book "The Story of a Soul" ("L'histoire d'une âme"). In this work she describes in a simple and poetic way her spiritual journey and her devotion to the "little way" or "little flower" of love for God in everyday life.

4. The Little Way:

Thérèse's spiritual teaching, known as "The Little Way", emphasizes simplicity and humility in service to God. She explained that one can reach God not through extraordinary deeds, but through small, everyday acts of love.

5. Suffering and Sacrifice:

Thérèse suffered from tuberculosis and died at the age of 24. Her approach to illness and suffering became an important part of her spiritual teachings. She saw her suffering as an opportunity to unite with Christ and suffer for the sins of other souls.

6. Canonization and Doctor of the Church:

Thérèse was canonized in 1925 and declared a Doctor of the Church by Pope John Paul II in 1997. Her teachings influenced many believers and spiritual leaders, including Pope John Paul II himself.

7. Worship and Influence:

Saint Thérèse of Lisieux is venerated worldwide, and many believers seek her intercession in their prayers. Her influence extends across various Christian denominations, and her writings have inspired numerous people on their spiritual journey.

Saint Thérèse of Lisieux is an example of deep spirituality, humility and devotion to God in everyday life. Her teachings on the Little Way have helped enrich understanding of Christian spirituality and remain a source of inspiration for believers worldwide.