Guest Author - Rev. Jackie O´Neal S.T.M.

With Holy Week close upon us and Spring reminding us of the spirit of renewal,honoring Seminarians who have dedicatd their lives to the service of humanity seems appropriate, not only to revitalize interest in religious organizations reaching out to the world, but to share in the mission of charitable giving.

The main focus, in terms of charitable work, of the Society of the Little Flower, consists in providing the financial means for Carmelite Seminarians to complete their education.

Founded in 1923, the Society of the Little Flower (after St. Therese)celebrates the distinction of the largest organization in the world to promote devotion to St. Therese, the French Carmelite nun, affectionately known as "The Little Flower."

Currently, there are 275 priests and religious living and serving in 19 States in the United States, primarily in the Carmelite Province of the Most Pure Heart of Mary. In addition, hundreds of future priests depend upon the generosity of the Society to follow their vocations and complete training which will later equip them to serve the people as a preist.

St. Therese is known and loved for her "little way" related to simplifying life and service. On charity, she once wrote: "Now I realize that true charity consists in putting up with all one's neighbor's faults, never being surprised by his weakness, and being inspired by the least of his virtues."

Her autobiography, THE STORY OF A SOUL continues to be part of the classic religious canon and read widely by people from all walks of life and faiths.

The Society nurtures and inspired many, not only priests and religious. Currently there are 500,000 active members helping to support the mission of the Carmelites.

According to Eleanor Marie Jordan, Ambassador of the Society of the Little Flower, there are numerous ways to make gifts to the Society of the Little Flower. One way is to name the Society as beneficiary of a life insurance policy, IRA or retirement plan such as a 401K. These are typical ways an outright gift can be made to the Society, or any charitable organization.

Personally, I am a proud member of the Circle of Friends at the Society, and am inspired to know my monthly donation supports the Carmelite seminarians and God's work in the field.