The Little Way of St. Thérèse of Lisieux

Synopsis

In 1897, hardly twenty-four years old, Thérèse Martin died of tuberculosis in her Normandy convent. Born to a devout middle-class family, Thérèse lost her mother when only four and later followed her sisters into religious life at a young age. These writings show how it is that this young French Carmelite, despite such a short and in many ways unassuming life, has inspired millions: how she overcame her own weaknesses and learned to offer every part of her life to Jesus, embracing the Cross in the small things of daily life. In 1995, the Church proclaimed her a Doctor of the Church, largely on account of this very spirituality of the Little Way.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Way of Confidence

* Summary: Thérèse emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's love and providence. She encourages us to approach God like a little child, knowing that he will provide for our needs.
* Example: A person who is struggling with financial difficulties may pray to God for assistance, trusting that he will provide for their sustenance.

Chapter 2: Humility and Simplicity

* Summary: Thérèse teaches that true humility involves recognizing our own limitations and dependence on God. She encourages us to be simple and genuine in our interactions with others.
* Example: A person who is praised for their accomplishments may respond with humility, acknowledging God as the source of their abilities.

Chapter 3: Abandonment to Divine Love

* Summary: Thérèse emphasizes the importance of surrendering our entire selves to God's love. She invites us to trust in his will and allow him to guide our lives.
* Example: A person who is facing a difficult situation may choose to surrender their worries to God, trusting that he will lead them to the best outcome.

Chapter 4: The Way of Childhood

* Summary: Thérèse explains that the way of childhood involves approaching God with the simplicity and innocence of a child. She encourages us to rely on God's protection and care.
* Example: A person who is feeling lost or alone may pray to God, seeking his guidance and comfort like a child would seek their parent.

Chapter 5: The Hidden Life

* Summary: Thérèse describes the importance of living a life of humility and obscurity, focusing on the small, unseen acts of love that please God.
* Example: A person who is working menial tasks may offer their work to God, seeking to glorify him through their daily activities.

Chapter 6: The Way of Trust

* Summary: Thérèse emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's love and protection, even in times of trial or disappointment.
* Example: A person who is enduring a painful experience may trust that God is present with them and will provide strength and comfort.

Chapter 7: The Way of Suffering

* Summary: Thérèse explains that suffering can be a means of purification and growth if it is accepted with love and offered to God.
* Example: A person who is ill may choose to embrace their suffering, offering it to God as a way to grow in humility and dependence.

Chapter 8: The Way of Heaven

* Summary: Thérèse describes the joy and peace that come from knowing God's love and living in communion with him. She encourages us to strive for heaven, where we will experience eternal happiness.
* Example: A person who is preparing for death may find comfort in the promise of eternal life, knowing that they will one day be reunited with God.