“St. Therese of Lisieux (Little Flower)"
 
Saint Therese of Lisieux was born Marie Francoise-Therese Martin on January 2, 1873, in Aleçon, France. She later chose the name of Therese of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face, OCD. She is best known as the “Little Flower.” 

Her mission after death was: “I will spend my time in heaven doing good on earth. I will let fall from heaven a shower of roses.”  She is one of the most popular saints in the history of the Church and is known for her "little way."

She died September 30, 1897, at age 24, and canonized May 17, 1925. Therese was declared a Doctor of the Church, October 19, 1997. Her Feast Day is Oct. 1.

 "St. Elisabeth of the Holy Trinity”

Saint Elizabeth was born Elizabeth Catez in Dijon, France, on July 18, 1880, and later chose the name of Elizabeth of the Trinity, OCD.

She became a mystic and renowned spiritual writer. She was known for the depth of her spiritual growth and her persistence in pursuing the will of God. One of her most noted prayers was the Poem: “O My God, Trinity Whom I Adore.”

She died November 9, 1906, at age 26, and was canonized October 16, 2016. Her Feast Day is Nov. 8.

In the icon, the two Carmelites are standing on Mt. Carmel but outside the walls of Avila. Mt. Carmel is in Israel and Avila in Spain but joined here in spirit. 
 
© 2017 Clyde Rausch, OMI