St. Thérèse's relics begin tour across the United States

The sacred bones of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, a revered French Carmelite nun, began their journey through the United States on October 1, 2025, starting at the National Shrine of The Little Flower Basilica located in Royal Oak, Michigan. This special event commemorates her feast day as well as a significant milestone, marking 25 years since her relics last visited the U.S., when they came from France in 1999. The shrine was established in 1926 and is one of the first parishes dedicated to her memory. Many attendees, including Nicole Scheier and Haifa Gabbara, arrived early to experience the event, demonstrating a deep personal connection to St. Thérèse. Scheier expressed that the saint's teachings, particularly her message that sainthood is attainable through small acts of love, resonate with many. The relics' presence allows admirers to engage deeply with their faith as they participate in veneration, which includes the customary touching of the reliquary with medals and rosaries, while being mindful not to touch or kiss the glass. Such public remembrances underscore the Catholic tradition of honoring saints through relics, which serve as reminders of their lives and contributions. The tour will continue across the United States, making stops in several states—including Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Wisconsin, and Washington, D.C.—until December. This extensive journey is not just a pilgrimage for the faithful, but also a chance for many who may not have had prior opportunities to connect with St. Thérèse's legacy in a tangible way. The Rev. John Bettin, the rector of the basilica, reflected on the arrival of the relics as a blessing, likening it to a Christmas gift from God. St. Thérèse, often known as "The Little Flower of Jesus," passed away at a young age of 24 due to tuberculosis but left an enduring legacy through her spiritual writings, especially her autobiography, "Story of a Soul." Canonized by Pope Pius XI in 1925, her teachings continue to inspire countless individuals around the world. The current tour serves as a rejuvenating reminder of her life and message of love and holiness, connecting people of faith across generations.