The Theresians are named after Therese of Lisieux, their patron saint. She had the ability to see through the complicated spirituality of her own day. St. Therese worked out her own unique approach to God, apparently without entrenching herself in the more complex and sometimes stifling forms of spirituality and theology developed by many theologians and spiritual directors over the centuries.

St. Therese knew how to communicate with God and love the people in her midst at any given moment. More recently, studies of the spiritual practices of her time, with their maudlin piety and florid imagery, and of Therese’s own straightforwardness, indicate her almost radical approach toward spiritual development. She sought a means of going to heaven by a little way, a way that was very straight, very short, and totally new. For more information visit www.theresians.org.

The Theresians of Jacksonville is a local member of the international organization. They meet monthly for Mass and spiritual prayer followed by a guest speaker and lunch. Meetings are held at St. Joseph's historic Church in Jacksonville. Mass is at 10:30 a.m. followed by a short business meeting, guest speaker and lunch. We welcome all women to join us at our monthly gatherings.