The work of a mind of rare intelligence and integrity, this book is unique among the lives of saints. First published in Germany in 1944, the original is now in its eighth edition. This first English translation is based on a new, revised version using the latest edition of the saint's writings. Ignatius Press, Spring 2003, 434 pages. Quantity
Christopher O'Donnell, an Irish Carmelite theologian and author of the well-received Love in the Heart of the Church: The Mission of St. Therese (Veritas, 1997), deals first with the Carmelite background of prayer and the prayer-life of her convent, and then addresses her thoughts on the Eucharist, the Liturgy of the Hours, mental and vocal prayer, and the prayers that she composed. The book concludes with a consideration of St. Therese's role as a guide of prayer for today's Church. Softcover, 126 pages; Spring 2002 Quantity
St. Thérèse’s mother herself a saint? Zélie Martin and her husband Louis were declared Venerableby the Church in 1994 for their “Heroic Virtue,” and the couple’s cause is now progressing toward Beatification. Zélie married at 27, bore 9 children, ran a home business and did a superb job of raising 5 daughters—including “the greatest saint of modern times.” (st. Pius X). She died of breast cancer at 45, but her greatness was recognized by her family and her friends, and is now known to the world. Zélie suffered many of the ordinary burdens of life, yet she was happy, loved her children “madly” and enjoyed them immensely.
This book was written by her daughter Celine, who had access to Zelie’s letters and to the reminiscences of her older sisters in the Carmel of Lisieux. It is authentic and inspiring, showing what a tremendous life’s work and accomplishment it is to be a truly Catholic mother. Looking at Zélie’s picture, one can see her incredible character, integrity, goodness, constancy and love. TAN Books & Publishers Spring 2005.
Louis Martin was the pattern of Fatherhood on which St. Thérèse built her now famous “Little Way of Spiritual Childhood.” Louis was declared Venerableby the Church in 1994, along with his wife Zélie, because of his “Heroic Virtue.” What kind of a father was he? These reminiscences describe Louis Martin’s marriage at age 34, his love and support for Zélie, his firm discipline yet tender affection for his children, his piety, observance of Sunday, business practices, selfless conduct, generosity to the poor, etc. Celine gives particular attention to the sufferings of her father’s old age, foreseen in a vision by Thérèse, which included a period of time spent in a mental institution. She describes his beautiful death, as well as a sign received by Thérèse indicating that their father’s soul had gone straight to Heaven. Letters written by Louis gives additional insights into his character. Louis Martin’s daughters considered themselves highly blessed to have had so good a father. TAN Books & Publishers Spring 2005.
