Catholic leader’s delight as relics of the saint of the ‘Little Way’ to visit Wales
Feb 19 2008
THE Catholic Church yesterday said it was preparing a programme of teaching about the French saint St Thérèse of Lisieux as it was announced that her relics are to tour England and Wales.
A casket containing the earthly remains of the much venerated 19th century saint will come to the two countries for a tour from September 16 to October 7 next year, the Church said.
St Thérèse was born in Alençon, Normandy, in 1873 and at an early age entered the Carmelite convent of Lisieux. She died of tuberculosis in 1897 and was canonised or made a saint by the Church in 1925. She is famed for her spirituality known as the “Little Way” in which holiness is found through responding to the duties of everyday life without complaining or criticising.
Cardinal Cormac Murphy- O’Connor, leader of Catholics in England, who requested the visit, said, “I am delighted that the relics of St Thérèse are to visit England and Wales next year.
“I have always been deeply moved by St Thérèse’s Little Way. It is in fidelity to the small things of everyday life, animated by the love of Christ, that we achieve true holiness.
“I am sure that the intercession of St Thérèse will be of great spiritual benefit to the people of our country.”
The Church said all would be welcome to venerate St Thérèse’s relics but there would be a “special invitation” to the sick, young people and those seeking their way in life, from any faith or none.
There will be a programme of catechises – teaching – among Catholics on the life and spirituality of the saint before the visit.
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The film viewing of the film Therese - review
It was a success on Friday. There were 22 of us, which was more than me or Fr Richard expected. Most of them came from his parish and there were a couple of people I knew, plus a person I hadn't met before. Like with the other 2 film viewings, people were moved. To be honest, I was half hearted about putting this viewing together (with Fr R) for a few reasons, but I believe that God blessed people. It was a good night.
It's funny how God sometimes gives us things to do that we don't expect.
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ZE07111401 - 2007-11-14
Permalink: http://www.zenit.org/article-21000?l=english
Benedict XVI Welcomes Relics of St. Thérèse
Urges Faithful to Love Scripture as She Did
VATICAN CITY, NOV. 14, 2007 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI expressed his joy at being able to pray before the relics of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, which are in Rome accompanied by pilgrims and the bishop from the saint's home diocese.
At the end of today's general audience, the Pope greeted the faithful from the French Diocese of Bayeux and Lisieux, and Bishop Pierre Auguste Pican, who are in Rome on pilgrimage, with the relics of St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face.
The Holy Father recalled how "120 years ago, Thérèse of Lisieux came to Rome to ask permission of Pope Leo XIII to enter the Carmelite order, despite her youth. Eighty years ago, Pope Pius XI proclaimed her patron saint of missions, and in 1997, Pope John Paul II declared her a doctor of the Church."
"In this audience," he continued, "I will have the joy of praying before her relics, as will many faithful over the course of this week in various churches in Rome."
The Pontiff used the French Carmelite's example to encourage reading the Bible.
"St. Thérèse would have liked to learn the languages of the Bible in order to better understand sacred Scripture," he said. "Following her example and that of St. Jerome, dedicate time to frequent reading of the Bible. By familiarizing yourselves with the Word of God, you will discover Christ and remain in intimate contact with him."
