Stronger than Steel: How Thérèse of the Child Jesus spoke to those on the battlefields of World War I is an extraordinary book that illuminates a unique period in history. Drawing on letters written by French soldiers during the war, it captures their personal accounts of how they relied on Thérèse de Lisieux, a Carmelite nun who died in 1897 before war broke out. Through these detailed accounts, readers can gain an incredible insight into the power of her presence and her mysticism.
The testimonies provided are unimaginable stories of hope and courage—from being saved from “showers for iron and fire”, surviving perilous danger, receiving miraculous healings even when doctors had despaired, and encouraging resilience through the trials of battle—showing she is indeed “stronger than steel”. This remarkable book gives readers an inside look at the driving forces behind their determination during this horrific time.
This undeniable evidence confirms that Thérèse offered solace to those in times of distress and suffering, making this must-read for all students and enthusiasts of World War I history. Through its captivating pages, Stronger than Steel provides an unprecedented understanding into faith-based experiences during a dire era and showcases an inspiring reminder for all generations about the strength found through prayerful reflection.
Editorial Reviews
“Each letter is a treasure, a true account of God’s presence in the darkness. If there is any book that will bring you hope in these unsettling times and a quiet joy burrowing to the depths of your soul, look no further.”—SISTER MARY NORBERT of the Norbertine Canonesses
“This collection of letters from soldiers fighting in the First World War is truly astonishing, moving, and inspiring. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to renew your faith in Christ, your devotion to the saints, and your conviction that God answers prayer and works miracles in the world today.”—DAN BURKE, President, Avila Foundation
“Saint Thérèse is very well known by her fruits, but we don’t know the half of them. For those who think of her as limiting herself to the religious life, this book will be a revelation. It shows her weakness in mortal life translated into glorious power on the battlefield, her illness translated into miraculous healing, and her death translated into protection from death.”—FR. LUKE BELL, author of Staying Tender
“This fascinating collection of letters amounts to a practical exposition of the doctrine of the Communion of Saints. It will surely instill readers with even more confidence in the intercessory power of the saint of Lisieux.”—PATRICK KENNY, editor of To Raise the Fallen
“These letters from the Front will convince all but the most skeptical that the Little Flower was present in the mud, blood, and chaos of the trenches; not only bringing spiritual consolation to the soldiers, but protecting many of them from shells and bullets. This a book to deepen your faith in supernatural realities.”—MAOLSHEACHLANN Ó CEALLAIGH, author of Inspiration from the Saints