Saints Louis and Zélie Martin are models of holiness for us today, especially for families. The Martins were married in Alencon, France, in 1858 and gave to history nine children. Zélie Martin died of cancer in 1877, at the age of 45 and Louis died when in 1894, at 70 years.
Pope Francis canonized Louis and Zélie today and beatified in 2008.
Saints Louis and Zélie are the parents of St. Thérèse of Lisieux and another daughter and candidate for sainthood, Léonie Martin, who became Sister Françoise-Thérèse of the Monastery of the Visitation at Caen.
Angelo Cardinal Amato, Prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, described Louis and Zélie Martin as “an extraordinary witness of conjugal and family spirituality.”
At the wish of Pope Francis the faithful were invited to pray before the mortal remains of the new saints at the Basilica of St. Mary Major.
Saints Louis and Zélie model for us the vocation of Catholic parents. Despite many difficulties and sufferings they persevered and kept strong faith. In an age when so many families suffer, let us pray for the strengthening of families.
Therese’s parents taught their children to follow the Magisterium’s unchangeable guidelines and absolute norm to be what can only be called decent/modest in their home. Their children were not allowed out of the house if their knees were not covered etc… and everyone who came to their home had to also follow the Magisterium’s rules or they were not allowed to enter. They also never worked on Sunday and believed that those who kept holy the Sabbath would prosper and be happy, but those who kept holy the Sabbath yet worked, might prosper, but would never be happy. I read the two books written by Therese’s sister Celine – “The Mother of the Little Flower” and “The Father of the Little Flower”..They thought just about everyone one they knew was worldly…Therese’s mother Zelie said quote: ” My God since I am unworthy to be your spouse like my sister, I shall enter the married state to accomplish your will. I beg You then, let me have many children, and may they all be consecrated to You. my God.” etc..etc..etc.. .All Catholics parents and married couples should read these books and imitate their example of parenting …… Therese said that her parents were more worthy of heaven then earth…we must imitate Mother Mary and the saints if we want to get to heaven