ST THÉRÈSE & THE MARTYRDOM OF LOVE
SUMMER CONFERENCE: 3 – 5 JULY 2020
St Thérèse of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face is the youngest of all the “Doctors of the Church” but her ardent spiritual journey shows such maturity, and the insights of faith expressed in her writings are so vast and profound that they deserve a place among the great spiritual masters.
St John Paul II
St Thérèse of Lisieux – often known as “the Little Flower” and “of the Child Jesus”, but seldom by the second part of her name, “and the Holy Face”, died as a Martyr of Love at the age of 24. In 1997, St John Paul II declared her a Doctor of the Universal Church.
This three-day conference seeks to examine the life of St Thérèse, with a focus on her martyrdom of love. This term – martyrdom of love – was used by St John of the Cross and by St Francis de Sales (both Doctors of the Universal Church). Many have heard of martyrdom and white martyrdom, but few of us have heard of the martyrdom of love.
In this conference, we will learn what it means to be a martyr of love. We will look in detail at St Thérèse’s complete union with Christ, the wisdom of her “Little Way”, and her pefection in charity. We will also explore her mystical experiences and see that she reached the highest stage of the spiritual life – the transforming union.
In this conference we will focus especially on the gift of wisdom – the highest of the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit (Is 11:2-3) – and we will see how the operation of this gift enables St Thérèse to reach the heights of holiness, even at such a young age.
Christ calls each and every disciple to the heights of holiness. The Second Vatican Council called this the Universal Call to Holiness. The life of St Thérèse gives us great hope that with the help of the Holy Spirit, all of us can reach the heights of holiness.
Come and get to know this great Saint and Doctor of the Church, whose Little Way is a sure path to heaven for all!
And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.
ACTS 2:42
During this conference, we follow in the footsteps of the early Christians, studying together, praying together, and being nourished together at the Eucharistic Banquet. There are also opportunities to enjoy social time and fellowship with staff members, fellow disciples, and the Oratory Fathers.
Places are limited. Please register as soon as possible to ensure you have a reserved place.
Cost for the Conference (including accommodation, meals, and parking): £465.
This Conference begins on Friday morning and ends on Sunday afternoon. If you would like to extend the hotel booking of your room (at the discounted rate) on either the previous (Thursday), or following (Sunday) night(s), or both, please contact us.