Page 51 - Built For God Handbook (Bible Verses) - The Christian Edition of the Tao Te Ching - The New Evangelization - Pope John Paul II

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affirming his belief in her ongoing spiritual guidance throughout his
path.

St. Thérèse of Lisieux is known for her profound yet
straightforward spiritual approach, often referred to as "The Little
Way." Her teachings emphasize discovering holiness in everyday
life and placing unwavering trust in God's love and mercy. Rather
than focusing on complex theological doctrines or ornate prayers,
St. Thérèse advocates for a simpler, more direct path to God—one
that is accessible to all. Her approach highlights the importance of
genuine connections and dialogues over rigid rules, suggesting that
the essence of faith lies in embracing fundamental truths and
nurturing a heartfelt relationship with the divine.

St. Thérèse's final desire was to dedicate her life to
missionary work in Vietnam, especially in the northern region,
where Keith's great-grandparents established Phuong Duc Catholic
Church. Unfortunately, she passed away from tuberculosis in 1897
at the tender age of twenty-four. Her dedication to evangelization
was evident in her writings, where she expressed her desire: "What
we ask of him is to work for his glory, to love him and to make him
loved" (Letter 220). Keith is confident that northern Vietnam will be
blessed with a significant outpouring of divine grace to further the
Kingdom of God for the New Evangelization. He believes that St.
Thérèse’s aspirations and prayers for Vietnam will be fulfilled
through God’s immense love and grace.

Pope Pius XI canonized St. Thérèse in 1925 and declared
her Patron Saint of the Universal Missions in 1927. Her special
message, "Way of Spiritual Childhood," paved the way for the