The Spiritual Genius of Saint Theresa of Lisieux

From back cover: "What qualities made a provincial French nun who died at age 24 one of the world's most fascinating women and perhaps the best-loved Roman Catholic saint? In this eloquent appreciation, Jean Guitton captures the special essence of Therese of Lisieux in much the same way a gifted photographer captures his subject. The result is an intimate portrait of the intellect, charm, and spiritual vision of the saint widely known as the 'Little Flower.' Ranking Therese as one of the 'Lights of the World,' alongside saints Paul, Augustine, Francis of Assisi, and Joan of Arc, Guitton examines her faith and its special relevance for the modern world. He illuminates 7 salient themes in her writings: love of the world as it is; the notion of authenticity; divine love as inimical to human suffering; the afterlife as a continuation of this life; purgatory as a place to love; human life as an effortless striving; and the vision of eternity in the present moment. These seven pivotal concepts, for all their childlike simplicity, constitute a profound theological vision." ***** * Foreword by Mgr. Guy Gaucher * Preface Introduction * Her Charm * Language and Style * Therese's Anti-Jansenism Seven Key Terms 1 - Love of the Human Condition 2 - A Sense of Reality 3 - God and Human Suffering 4 - Heaven and Earth 5 - Love and Purgatory 6 - Effortless Effort 7 - Unreal Time and Everlasting Present * Therese, Edith, Elizabeth * Therese's Devotion to Mary 1 - The Common Way and Faith Pure and Simple 2 - Our Lady and the Eurachist 3 - Substituting Situations * Therese, Mary, and Protestantism * Therese and Life Everlasting * Chronology of Therese's Life

Study of Therese by a member of the French academy who classes her with a half dozen "siritual geniuses." Fascinating.