The revered relics of St. Therese of Lisieux, a beloved French Carmelite nun and Catholic saint, have begun a tour in the United States, starting at a historic parish in Michigan named in her honor.
A portion of her remains is being displayed at the National Shrine of Little Flower Basilica in Royal Oak, Michigan. This tour coincides with the 100th anniversary of her canonization in 1926.
Nicole Scheier was among those who arrived well ahead of the initial opportunity to see St. Therese’s relics.
“St. Therese is a saint for everyone. She’s approachable. She teaches that the saint is attainable and that small acts can be done with great love,” said a representative of the National Shrine.
St. Therese’s remains will be exhibited in Michigan until October 8th and will subsequently head to California. The tour will continue to various states, including Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Wisconsin, and Washington, D.C. starting in December.
Haifa Gabara also decided to arrive early. “St. Therese holds a special place in my family’s heart,” noted the West Bloomfield Township resident, explaining her eagerness to be present.
The Little Flower Basilica, a notable landmark on Woodward Avenue in Metro Detroit, was constructed in 1926 and is dedicated to the French saint, who passed away from tuberculosis in 1897 at the tender age of 24. She was canonized in 1925 by Pope Pius XI.
Known as the “little flower of Jesus,” St. Therese was born in 1873 as Therese Martin and became a Carmelite nun at the Lisieux Abbey in France. Although she never left the monastery, her posthumously published autobiography, The Story of a Soul, garnered worldwide fame. In her writings, she illustrated how a heartfelt, loving approach can lead one to God through seemingly minor acts of kindness. It’s a perspective that resonates with those who may feel insignificant in the grand scheme of things.
“I seek heaven in a humble way. Not in a quick or overly direct manner. In our inventive age, climbing the stairs isn’t an issue. But the journey, that requires me to grow,” she wrote. “Our Lord values love in our deeds rather than their perceived greatness.”
Her insights, referred to as “The Little Way,” earned her the title of doctor of the church, reflecting her significant contributions to Catholic thought. Her teachings have inspired countless Christians, including other saints. Mother Teresa of Calcutta, for example, adopted St. Therese’s name upon entering religious life, crediting the French saint’s “little way” for her commitment to serving the impoverished in India.
The last time St. Therese’s relics toured the United States was in 1999, drawing tens of thousands to Royal Oak over a single day. Now, 25 years later, her relics are back in Michigan to celebrate not only the feast day of the Little Flower on October 1st but also the century mark of her canonization.
“It’s truly a beautiful gift from God to have her here with us, similar to the joy of Christmas morning,” shared Rev. John Bettin, president of the National Shrine of Little Flower Basilica.
In Catholic tradition, relics—often bones or items of clothing from a saint—serve as commemorative objects. This practice connects to ancient customs of honoring sacred figures within the church.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.
