Saint Thérèse – patron saint of missionaries, aviators, and florists
Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, also known as Little Thérèse or Thérèse of the Child Jesus, was a significant figure in the Catholic Church and one of the most popular saints of the 20th century. Her life and spiritual message reach far beyond the boundaries of time and continents. Thérèse of Lisieux left an indelible mark on the spiritual world and remains an example for many who seek a simple yet profound way to find God.
Early Days and Family
Thérèse Martin was born on January 2, 1873, in Alençon, France. Her parents, Louis and Zélie Martin, were a model of a Christian family and greatly influenced her spiritual life. Thérèse had four sisters. The Martin family went through many hardships, and it was these experiences that prepared her for her later spiritual development. When she was 10 years old, she fell seriously ill. For five years, she attended school run by the Benedictine sisters.
The Journey to Carmel
Thérèse entered the Carmelite convent in Lisieux at the age of 15. Her entry into the convent was an important moment in her life, as it marked the beginning of her journey toward holiness. After entering the convent, she took the religious name Thérèse of the Child Jesus and of the Holy Face. After a year of novitiate, she made her first vows.
The Little Pilgrim of Love
Saint Thérèse is known for her approach to “little things” in spiritual life. In 1895, she began writing her autobiography, which she titled Story of a Soul. In this work, she also wrote the well-known words:
“My vocation is love. I want to love Jesus so devotedly that no one has ever loved Him so. The smallest act of love will please the Church more than all other acts done perfectly.”
While writing this book, she also developed her concept of small steps, through which even ordinary people can draw closer to Christ. Thérèse emphasized the importance of love and turning away from oneself in favor of love for God and one's neighbor. She claimed that she could not prove her love for Christ through great deeds, so she focused on small steps, small sacrifices, and little things she would do out of love for her neighbor, in order to draw closer to Christ in this way.
Death and Legacy
Saint Thérèse died on September 30, 1897, at the age of only 24. As she wrote to one missionary before her death: “I am not dying, I am entering into life.” Thérèse's legacy is her book “Story of a Soul” and her example of trust in God and love for one's neighbor. Her admirers all over the world often call her “Little Saint Thérèse.”
Canonization and Recognition
Thérèse was canonized by Pope Pius X in 1925. Today, she is revered not only in the Catholic Church but also among believers of different faiths. Her extraordinary spiritual story and simple yet profound approach to religion make her an unforgettable inspiration and a model of holiness for ordinary, “little” people.
Conclusion
Saint Thérèse of Lisieux remains an important example for those seeking spiritual growth and a deeper faith. Her life and spiritual teachings on trust in God and love for one's neighbor remain relevant and inspire many. Thérèse of Lisieux reminds us that the journey toward holiness can be simple if we begin it with a heart full of love and trust. Her little journeys of love show us the way to great things in spiritual life.
Saint Thérèse was considered the patron saint of flowers because in her autobiographical book, “Story of a Soul,” she describes her spiritual journeys and experiences, often using the symbolism of flowers to express her feelings, prayers, and relationship with God. Flowers became a metaphor in her writings for her spiritual growth and devotion to God.
Furthermore, Thérèse is considered the patron saint of flowers because her tomb in the Carmelite convent in Lisieux is adorned with floral gifts from pilgrims and believers. These flowers symbolize their reverence and love for this saint.