October 1, the feast of St. Therese of Lisieux

"Remember that nothing is small in the eyes of God. Do all that you do with love." —St. Therese of Lisieux

Dear readers:

Today we celebrate the feast of our beloved St. Therese, who found a direct way to God through her Little Way of being humble and simple. Her Little Way of serving God is a model for us all, young or old, rich or poor. She promised to let fall a shower of roses to all who seek her help, and she has sent so many lovely roses my way. I smile when I think of them all. I love you, St. Therese! Therese of the Child Jesus, most loving Saint, pray for us!

I mentioned yesterday that there is another nine-day novena that you can start today, her feast day.

Start with:

Saint Therese, flower of Carmel, you said you would spend your Heaven doing good upon the Earth. Your trust in God was complete. Listen to my prayer; bring before God my special intention...

Pray for me that I may have something of your confidence in the loving promises of our God. Pray that I may live my life in union with God's plan for me, and one day see the Face of God who you so ardently loved.

Saint Therese, you kept your word to love God and to trust the world to that loving providence. Pray for us that we may be faithful to our commitment to the love. May our lives, like yours, be able to touch the world and bring it to peace.

DAY ONE

Loving God, you blessed St. Therese with a capacity for a great love. Help us to believe in your unconditional love for each of us.

"Believe that I shall be your true little sister for all eternity." —St. Therese