These words of St. Therese of Lisieux have become the most recognizable symbol for this beautiful saint. Known as “The Little Flower” St. Therese’s life was one of simplicity, humility, and practicing “The Little Way” by which she sought to attain eternal life with Christ.
Therese of Lisieux is one of the patron saints of the missions, not because she ever went anywhere, but because of her special love of the missions, and the prayers and letters she gave in support of missionaries. This is a reminder to all of us who feel we can do nothing, that it is the little things that keep God's kingdom growing.
The significant and simple life of our little Carmelite Saint inspired the Pioneers of our Southern Province to take up the name of the infant Province as “St. Therese’s Province, and the Convent “Pushpadhara” meaning a shower of roses. The Southern Province which was named after this little Saint had the foresight of seeking the intercession and had a firm belief that , our infant Province will bloom and spread where ever we are, under the protecting guidance of St. Therese of Lisieux.
Therese Martin was born at Alencon (France) in 1873. At the age of fifteen she entered the Carmel at Lisieux. She Practiced heroic humility, Evangelical simplicity and trust in God and taught the novices these virtues by word and example. She offered her life for the salvation of souls and the spread of faith. She died on 30th September 1897.
St. Therese, being the Patroness of the Southern Province, whose Feast we celebrate on October 1st, help us along the way with perfect love. She is a Saint for us Carmelites. May she intercede for each one of us.