Customer Reviews

Two Sisters in the Spirit: Therese of Lisieux and Elizabeth of the Trinity

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These combined works of von Balthasar on two Carmelite nuns, St. Therese of Lisieux and Bl. Elizabeth of the Trinity, offers exceptional insights to their particular spiritualities and their role in the Church. The part focusing on Therese is perhaps best read with an already established knowlege of the saint. Be prepared to totally change the way you think of the "Little Flower"! This is probably not a good book for those just becoming familiar with Therese, but for those who have read nearly all she has written (Story of a Soul, Letters, Poems, etc.) von Balthasar's thoughts will be a fascinating read. This book sheds some very interesting light on other works of Therese when you go back to read them a second time! This is the best book I've read on Therese. The section on Bl. Elizabeth is considerably shorter, but the book is worth buying for it alone. Her simple "way," the praise of the glory of God's grace, is eloquently illuminated by von Balthasar. In a word, beautiful... I highly recommend this book for all lovers of Carmel, and for anyone who has stumbled upon the greatness of these two women.

This is one of the best books I have read on a saint, and in this case Von Balthasar writes about two saints, not just one. His chapter on Therese's "Little Way" is outstanding (and can be found online...that's how I discovered this wonderful book). I especially enjoyed the chapter entitled "Shadows", in which the author squarely addresses the issue of weaknesses often retained by true saints. This book is not for those who wish to hold on to a plaster image of sanctity, in which holiness is removed from humanity and vulnerability. Highly recommended for everyone else!

A Very Good Book For Anyone Interested In The Saints At A Very Reasonable Price. These Young Women Were In Love With God.

I read this book about 2 and 1/2 years ago and when I read another book on some blessed or saint, I find myself a little disappointed that it lacks the rigourous analysis of Von Baltasar.