Saint Thérèse of Lisieux: Life and spiritual legacy

Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, a French Carmelite nun, is recognized as a significant figure in the Catholic Church for her spiritual teachings and devotion. Born in Alençon, France, on January 2, 1873, she entered the Carmelite convent in Lisieux in 1888 after seeking permission from Pope Leo XIII.

Despite living a short life of only 24 years, her approach to faith—centered on performing small acts with great love and trust—has had a lasting impact. Pope John Paul II declared her a Doctor of the Church, noting her ‘science of love’ derived from prayer and spiritual discipline. Her life was marked by her commitment to prayer and service within her religious community until her death from tuberculosis.