Review: The Little Flower - A meditation on the Little Way of St Thérèse of Lisieux in words and music

Review: The Little Flower: A meditation on the Little Way of St Thérèse of Lisieux in words and music (Schola Cantamus, directed by Jeremy de Satgé, narrated by Claire Richnell)

This is a heartfelt and well presented collection of short extracts from the writings of St Thérèse of Lisieux combined with sung music that is either traditional or written by Jeremy de Satgé. It is perfect preparation for the visit of the saint's relics to England and Wales this autumn.

The traditional Carmelite hymn Flos Carmeli provides a meditational setting for the brief introduction on Thérèse's life which follows. Following this, each track closely alternates words with music, allowing the rich message of the saint to permeate the reader's mind against the backdrop of simple and well chosen harmonies.

This CD will give lovers of Thérèse a new angle on her teaching and will enthral those looking for an introduction to it. The words complement the theme of each extract, covering themes such as spiritual childhood, self-surrender, simplicity and charity.

The spoken word has an emphasis that the read word does not, and this, combined with the sparse harmonies of the music, provides a powerful source of inspiration for living Thérèse's Little Way. The saint's words live anew in this moving compilation which conveys the Carmelite spirit with authentic depth.