Thérèse and the little way

Thérèse grew up in France in a family that prayed together. When she was young, she entered a Carmelite community in Lisieux. Much of her life was spent in the same place, doing ordinary things.

She called her approach to loving God the little way. She did not think that love always needed a large audience or an impressive achievement. Small acts could be offered with great care.

That did not mean everything felt easy. Living with other people could be difficult, and she had to practice patience. Her writings describe her desire to trust God and keep loving even when she struggled.

A kind answer, a quietly finished chore, or welcoming someone who feels left out can be part of your own day. You do not need to wait until you are older to love someone well.

Background: Benedict XVI, General Audience, 6 April 2011. Original retelling and activity; no invented dialogue.

For a grown-up: read the full biography.

Choose another story →