Pope Francis, during his journey to Mongolia on August 31st, shared a significant announcement with the 70 accompanying journalists. He revealed his plans to release an apostolic letter dedicated to St. Thérèse of Lisieux, set to be published on October 15th, 2023.

This forthcoming apostolic letter follows the Pope’s declaration during a general audience on June 7th, 2023, where he unveiled his intention to compose a tribute to the patron saint of missions. The decision to honor St. Thérèse of Lisieux marks a poignant celebration of her 150th birth anniversary, as well as the centennial commemoration of her beatification.

St. Thérèse, famously known as ‘The Little Flower,’ led a life of devotion to God, characterized by selflessness and a deep love for consoling Jesus. The bishop of Rome highlighted her remarkable intercession for the salvation of all. Her enduring legacy as a French Discalced Carmelite nun is characterized by her profound spirituality and unwavering faith.

To mark this momentous occasion, Pope Francis has granted a Jubilee Year dedicated to St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus. This Jubilee Year will extend until Sunday, January 7, 2024, and it carries the theme “For trust and love,” which encapsulates the essence of her autobiography, “Story of a Soul.”

St. Thérèse’s remarkable journey continues to inspire and touch the hearts of millions worldwide. Her canonization took place in 1925 under Pope Pius XI’s pontificate, and she was later proclaimed a doctor of the Church on October 19, 1997, by St. John Paul II. Her profound impact on the Catholic faith led St. Pius X to recognize her as “the greatest saint of modern times.”