The Little Ways of St. Therese

Key Concepts

• Little Ways of Spiritual Childhood: A method for advancing along the path of perfection through daily life.
  • Endorsed by Benedict XV and Pius XI, emphasizing its importance for sanctity and the restoration of society.
  • Based on the teachings of Jesus about humility and child-like faith.

Core Teachings of St. Therese

• Spiritual Childhood: Emphasizes confidence and complete surrender to God.
  • Importance of small sacrifices offered to Jesus.
• Child-like Attitude:
  • Recognizing one's own nothingness and relying on God’s goodness.
  • Comparison to a child relying on a parent for everything.

Misconceptions Addressed

• Not Passive: Being a spiritual child does not mean passivity.
  • Active Participation: Requires self-denial and commitment to good works without counting the cost.

St. Therese's Insights

• Acknowledgment of Weakness:
  • Encouragement to not be discouraged by faults; children can fall but are not severely harmed.
  • Even with grave sins, one should confidently return to Jesus.
• Holiness: Defined as a disposition of arms of God, recognizing weaknesses while having confidence in God's goodness.

Personal Commitment

• St. Therese’s Goal:
  • Aspiration to become a saint was central to her life.
  • Actions were directed towards achieving this aim.

Application for Today

• Adopting the Little Way: Encouragement for others to embrace St. Therese’s teachings to march towards holiness.