Saint Therese of Lisieux

Patron of missionaries, florists, the sick, those who have lost parents, and people seeking simplicity and trust in God.

Feast Day: October 1st

Doctor of the Church and Religious

Alençon, France

Feast Day: October 1st

Doctor of the Church and Religious

Alençon, France

About

St Thérèse of Lisieux, also known as the Little Flower of Jesus, was a French Carmelite nun who is one of the most beloved saints in the Catholic Church. Born as Marie Françoise-Thérèse Martin in 1873 in Alençon, France, she entered the Carmelite convent in Lisieux at the young age of 15. Despite living a short and hidden life within the cloister, her simple and profound love for God became known around the world after her death. Thérèse is best known for her “Little Way” of spiritual childhood—trusting God in small things with great love. She believed that holiness is not reserved for a few, but is possible for everyone through daily acts of love and humility. Her autobiography, Story of a Soul, has touched the hearts of millions and inspired many to follow her path of simplicity, trust, and surrender.

Legacy

The legacy of St Thérèse of Lisieux continues to inspire people around the world. Though she died at just 24 years old from tuberculosis, her spiritual wisdom far exceeded her years. Pope Pius XI canonized her in 1925, and she was later named a Doctor of the Church by Pope John Paul II in 1997, recognizing the depth of her spiritual teachings. Thérèse promised to “spend her heaven doing good on earth,” and many people report answered prayers and miracles through her intercession. Her image, often shown with roses, reminds the faithful of her promise to “let fall a shower of roses” from heaven as a sign of God’s love. She is honored in churches and shrines around the world, including the Basilica of Lisieux in France, one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in the country.

“What matters in life is not great deeds, but great love.” — St Thérèse of Lisieux