St. Theresa of the Child Jesus
(the Little Flower)
Doctor of the Church

Feast Day:
October 1st

Lived:
1873-1897

Patron Saint:
Patroness of the Missions

Religious Order:
Carmelite

Wrote:
The Story of a Soul. Along with two volumes of letters, some poems, prayers and eight plays.

Images of Theresa:
The Crucifix she holds in her hands represents her love for Christ. The Roses in her arms represents her love for the Blessed Mother, Mary.

Doctor of the Church:
Theresa was canonized in 1925, and became the 33rd Doctor of the Church. Pope John Paul II bestowed the title on October 19,1997. Theresa was the third woman to be named a Doctor of the Church, following St. Catherine of Siena and St.Teresa of Avila.

Theresa is one of the most beloved saints of our modern era. Popularly known as the Little Flower because of her simple way of love and because she promised to shower petals of roses on everyone. Thousands of souls have received favors through her intercession. Her outward appearance didn’t seem to be anything heroic, important, or spectacular and her simple religious devotions were innocent and humble. She is recognized as a powerful sign to people of all ages, but especially the young. In heaven she may well serve as a beacon of light to those who are still traveling in darkness. God sent her into the world to be a guide for the weak and timid souls, souls, perhaps, with high and noble aspirations but weak in will, to whom the hill of sanctity seems practically insurmountable; especially in comparison with the lives of the austere saints of ancient times.