October 1, 2025: Feast of St Therese of the Child Jesus
Marie-Françoise-Thérèse Martin was born in Alençon, in France, on 2 January 1873. She became a nun at the Carmelite convent of Lisieux, taking the name of Thérèse of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face. She died of tuberculosis at the age of 24. In 2023, the Church commemorated the 150th anniversary of her birth, and in 2024, the 100th anniversary of her beatification. These events led up to the centenary of her canonization on May 17 this year. The significance of Thérèse’s life extends beyond her brief earthly existence; she lived only until the age of 24 but left an indelible mark through her spirituality and teachings. Recognized as “the greatest saint of modern times” by Pope Pius XI, her influence continues to inspire countless individuals worldwide. As we celebrate her feast, may we be reminded of her call to live a life rooted in love and compassion – a message that remains vital in today’s world.
October 5, 2025: Celebration of the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary at the Priory
In joyful tribute to Our Lady of the Rosary, whose feast the Church celebrates on October 7, a Solemn celebration is being organised for Sunday, October 5, 2025 at the Carmelite Priory, Boars Hill, Oxford. It will begin with the Holy Eucharist at 11:00am, followed by a beautiful Rosary Procession from the Priory Chapel to Our Lady’s Grotto. This ancient devotion offers a precious opportunity to walk in the footsteps of countless pilgrims, carrying our hopes and prayers to Mary’s maternal heart. All are welcome to participate in this blessed gathering of faith and community. May the Queen of the Rosary intercede for us and for our world, wrapping us in her loving protection.
October 10-16, 2025: Retreat Pilgrimage to Avila
This pilgrimage with the Carmelites offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience Carmelite spirituality first-hand. Instead of merely reflecting on the lives of saints from afar, participants are able to walk in their very footsteps. This October, the pilgrimage goes to Avila, to the land of the great mystical doctor and teacher of prayer, St Teresa of Avila. It will unfold as a series of intimate encounters with history, like the small cell where Teresa wrote her spiritual masterworks and the rough stone walls of her convent. Pilgrims will discover how Teresa’s experiences of divine love unfolded in these very spaces. May the journey to St Teresa’s Avila unfold as more than mere travel — may it become a homecoming of the soul.