"Only love counts", Feast Day: 1 October

St Thérèse was the youngest 'doctor' (i.e. teacher) of the church at 24 years and a one time patroness of Australia. As patroness of the missions and a contemplative Carmelite nun she exemplified the connection between fruitful witness lived out from Christ's power and the necessity of being like a trusting child before God. The visit of her relics around Australia in 2002 proved her popularity in this country.

St Thérèse of Lisieux was born in France in 1873 to Louis and Zelie Martin. She was one of nine children and at the age of four, Thérèse lost her mother to cancer. When she was nine, Thérèse's beloved older sister Pauline joined the Carmelite Monastery at Lisieux. Lonely and distraught, Thérèse fell seriously ill with constant headaches and insomnia, fever, delirium and hallucinations. Treatments did not seem to work until 13 May, 1883, when a miracle happened. She turned her head to a statue of the Virgin Mary and prayed for a cure when suddenly she saw the face of Our Lady glowing with 'kindness and love'. The Blessed Mother's smile had cured her! By the age of ten, Thérèse perceived her life's mission: to work for the salvation of souls.

Thérèse sought entrance to the Carmelite convent when she was merely 15 years old. Though she was refused, she would not be deterred, eventually travelling to Rome to visit the Pope. She asked the Holy Father to allow her to become a nun.

At first, The Pope was reluctant, but he eventually agreed and one year later Thérèse entered the Carmelite convent. She spent the remaining years of her life within the cloister, Thérèse viewed God as a tender loving Father who was pleased with even the smallest acts of charity. She had an almost perfect trust in God, even an audacious confidence in Him.

On 30 September 1897 Thérèse died, assuring future generations that she will be more help to them in heaven: "I will send a shower of roses upon earth" Thérèse's life gives testimony of simplicity and trust in God, which when inspired by charity can far surpass feelings of abandonment.

St Thérèse is a wonderful role model for young people because she shows that holiness, which is unique for each person has at its heart simple acts of charity and trust. She affirms that "only love counts". WYD08 pilgrims can ask her intercession for the grace to surrender to the Providence of God, relying on His Power in their 'smallness'

Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, witness to trust and simplicity - pray for us