St. Thérèse's Spiritual Childhood: Who's First?

Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus exemplified spiritual childhood, but its ultimate model is Christ Himself, who eternally receives everything from the Father. This filial receptivity is the essence of Christian prayer, as seen in Christ’s relationship with the Father and reflected in contemplative prayer, which St. John of the Cross describes as pure receptivity. Thérèse lived this deeply, seeing prayer as a heartfelt aspiration, even amid dryness, and trusting God’s guidance in her daily lif...