THE LITTLE WAY OF ST. THERESE OF LISIEUX: A SAINT FOR OUR TIME

When we think of saints, we often picture extraordinary miracles, dramatic conversions, or grand public acts of faith. Yet, St. Therese of Lisieux, lovingly called "The Little Flower", shows us that holiness can be found in the small, ordinary moments of everyday life.

Born in 1873 in Alencon, France, Therese Martin entered the Carmelite convent at only 15 years old. She never traveled the world, founded missions, or preached in cathedrals. Instead, she lived a hidden life of prayer, sacrifice and simplicity--yet became one of the most beloved saints of the Church.

The "Little Way"

Therese believed that not everyone is called to do "great things," but we are all called to do small things with great love. For her, holiness was not about grand gestures but about love in the everyday: folding laundry patiently, offering a smile when she didn't feel like it, or praying for others in silence.

She wrote in her autobiography, Story of a Soul, that she wanted to be "love in the heart of the Church." This childlike trust in God became known as her Little Way--a path of humility, simplicity, and trust in God's mercy.

Why She Matters Today

In our busy, modern lives, it's easy to feel like we're not doing enough for God. St. Therese reminds us that holiness is  not measured by the size of our deeds, but by the love we put into them. Whether you're caring for children, working long hours, or quietly carrying personal struggles, you to can live the Little Way.

Her example gives us hope: even in the smallest acts of kindness, God finds greatness.