Description
Book SynopsisFor over a century, the Carmelite Sister Thérèse of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face (1873-1897) has been revered as Catholicism''s foremost folk saint of modern times. Universally known as the Little Flower, she has been a source of consolation and uplift, an example of everyday sainthood by the Little Way. This book puts aside that piety and addresses the torment of doubt within the life and writing of a saint best known for the strength of her conviction. Nevin examines the dynamics of Christian doubt, and argues that it is integral to the journey toward selfless love which Therese was compelled to take. Thérèse''s metaphors for doubt were ''tunnel'', ''fog'', and ''vault'', each one suggesting darkness, dimness, and enclosure. What, Nevin asks, did doubt mean to her? What was its source and nature? What was its object? He gives close attention to her reading and interpretations of the Old and New Testaments as pathways through her inner wilderness. Her Carmel of spiritual sister
Trade ReviewThis book is a very fine historical study reflecting both a sophisticated close reading of texts and a mastery of the sources. The two volumes Nevin has given us are indispensable for anyone who wishes to engage the life and thought of this young woman who has been honored by the Catholic Church as a Doctor of the Church. * Church History *
Table of ContentsPreface: Dwelling Upon Darkness ; Introduction ; Abbreviations ; I. Her Spanish Masters: Darkness within the Carmel ; II. Seeking Light from the Bible ; III. Bearing the Cross of Community ; IV. Her Spiritual Brothers Guide Her Down ; V. Final Charity: The Last Autobiography ; Conclusion: Out of the Darkness ; Appendix 1: The Text of Her Darkness ; Appendix 2: The Darkness of Teresa de Jesus ; Notes ; Selected Annotated Bibliography ; Index
