SOCIAL MEDIA

March 11, 2014

Three Gifts of Thérèse of Lisieux {Book Review}


 “Thérèse has been such a presence in my adult life—it is as if I have known her personally; she is as real and alive to me as my lifelong friends... I’ve identified three gifts that Thérèse has given me, which I would like to offer in this book to everyone seeking to find more meaning in their faith and their journey to find God.” 
-Patrick Ahern

Number of Pages: 128
ISBN: 9780385347907
Released: January 1, 2014

My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
 // Book Synopsis //
Taken from Good Reads
 Transformation in our lives happens when we live with the confidence that "God is nothing but mercy and love.” In this inspiring book, beloved author Patrick Ahern looks at the teachings of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, the Little Flower, through the lens of his own personal experiences in which this  "saint for our times" played such an important role for more than seventy years.  With honesty and humility, he delves into the transformational love that infused her faith, led her to be named one of only four female Doctors of the Catholic Church, and gave Ahern’s own journey direction and meaning. 

Ahern focuses on what he calls the three gifts of Thérèse:  her universal appeal, her conviction, and her little way. Echoing Therese’s recognition that bureaucracy, penances, rules and commandments miss the message of love that she knew to be true, he says, "She convinced me that someone as ordinary as I could aspire to the love of God, which filled her heart to overflowing." He hopes the same for his readers. 

// My Review //

Saint Therese of Lisieux is perhaps one of the most well loved saints even to this day. Mostly known for her little way. But what is the little way?

In this simple work of Bishop Patrick Ahern he shares the impact St. Thérèse had on his life and the lives of others through her "three gifts."

Universal appeal
Bishop Ahern shares about Thérèse's early sensitive childhood and how it shaped her.

Conviction
The most telling example of her conviction is the now infamous story of how she personally asked Pope Leo XIII to allow her to join the Carmelite convent early.

Little Way
"Her spirituality is within the reach of everyone..." 

This is a wonderful introduction book to Thérèse and her spirituality. Though simple it certaintly gives a clear message and makes you want to read. I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to develop a personal relationship with Thérèse.




"Whoever possesses the present moment possesses 
God
+++
Therefore whoever possesses the present moment 
possesses everything
 +++
The present moment is enough
Don't let anything trouble you."
I received this book for free from Blogging for Books for this review.

6 comments :

  1. I've heard so many good things about this book. It's definitely on my to-read list now.

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    1. You will really enjoy it! I am also considering reading his other book, "Maurice and Therese." It sounds amazing!

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    2. I've read "Maurice and Therese," and it's really good!! I'll have to see if I can find this one. :)

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  2. I love the quote at the end!
    St. Therese is my patron saint, and one of the names I chose for my Confirmation. This book looks wonderful; can't wait to check it out!

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    1. Oh good! Her " little way" can relate to so many situations of so many people! Congratulations on your Confirmation! ♥

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