Parents of St Therese Martin Canonised

VATICAN CITY – On World Mission Sunday, 18 Oct 2015, in St Peter’s Square, during the Synod of Bishops on the Family, Pope Francis canonised four blesseds, including the parents of St Therese of Lisieux, Louis and Zelie Martin.  Louis Martin (1823-1894) and Zelie Guerin (1831-1877) had nine children; four died in infancy and five entered religious life.  During their 19-year marriage, the couple was known to attend Mass daily, pray and fast, respect the Sabbath, visit the elderly and the sick, and welcome the poor into their home. – CNS