Summer 2 Solidarity and the Common Good

In truth I tell you, in so far as you did this to one of the least of these brothers [or sisters] of mine, you did it to me.

Matthew 25:40

God made everyone, so we are all brothers and sisters in God’s family wherever we live. God created us as one global family called to support our brothers and sisters.  

Solidarity and The Common Good stems from our belief that we are all sons and daughters of God. If we believe this, then it follows that we are invested in the good of everyone, especially people nobody normally thinks about - those  that have no voice and no power.

Likewise, the goods of the earth are there for everyone - we should stand shoulder-to-shoulder with all who have nothing, those where there is land injustice - farmers losing money in contrast to multi-national companies making excess profits. 

What happens to one has an impact on all, locally, nationally and globally.  At the heart of solidarity is the pursuit of peace and justice. Our love for all calls us to work for a peaceful and just society where everyone has a fair share of the goods needed for a sustainable life, and opportunities for growth and development are offered equally. The dignity of every person is respected.

Chosen Saint - Saint Thérèse of Lisieux

Who was Saint Thérèse of Lisieux?

Thérèse Martin was born in France on January 2, 1873, the last of nine children. Her mother died when she was four, so she grew up with her Father and children.

Saint Thérèse of Lisieux was a French Carmelite nun who lived a simple and humble life of love and trust in God. She is known for her “Little Way.”

By May 1887, Thérèse was determined to enter the Carmelite community at Lisieux. The fifteen-year-old Thérèse entered the convent where she would live for the rest of her life with three of her sisters who also became nuns . Over the remaining nine years of her life there, Thérèse blossomed in strength and holiness. In 1895, she was ordered to write a memoir of her childhood; this, together with some of her other writings, was published after her death as Story of a Soul. She died of tuberculosis in 1897 at the age of twenty-four.

Story of a Soul quickly became one of the most popular spiritual writings of the twentieth century. Despite its simplicity, many have found in it a profound wisdom, so much so that Pope John Paul II declared her a Doctor of the Church, one of only four women so named.

What is Saint Thérèse of Lisieux known for?

Saint Thérèse of Lisieux is known for her “Little Way,” which means doing small things with great love. She is also called the “Little Flower.”

Why is she called the “Little Flower”?

Saint Thérèse of Lisieux saw herself as a small, simple flower in God’s garden. She believed her life was small but still beautiful in God’s eyes.

Therese taught that through small, loving actions we can deliver God’s love to the world. This teaching is called the ‘Little Way’.  In the little sacrifices she made for others, Thérèse imitated Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. All of us are called to follow Jesus in this way. 

What is the “Little Way” of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux?

The “Little Way” of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux is about doing simple, everyday things with great love for God and others.

Why was Saint Thérèse of Lisieux made a saint?

Saint Thérèse of Lisieux was made a saint because of her deep faith, love for God, and the impact of her simple message on millions of people.

Why is Saint Thérèse of Lisieux called a Doctor of the Church?

Saint Thérèse of Lisieux was named a Doctor of the Church in 1997 by Pope John Paul II because her writings and teachings, especially her “Little Way,” have had a deep impact on the Catholic faith.

Why is Saint Thérèse of Lisieux important today?

Saint Thérèse of Lisieux is important because her message of trusting God in small, everyday actions speaks to many people looking for a simple way to follow God.  She speaks to us all about supporting each other and working towards the common good.