The Hidden Face (book)

The Hidden Face is a biography of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux by the Catholic author Ida Friederike Görres (1901 Bohemia  – 1971 Germany).

[15] The author also dedicates a section of the chapter to studying the puzzling personality of Mother Marie de Gonzague, who was prioress for many of Therese's years in the convent.

"[16] Görres claims that the saint practiced love of neighbor "for almost her entire life...solely out of obedience"[17] through intentional acts such as sitting beside difficult sisters during the recreation hour.

[20] Görres dedicates a section to analyzing the meaning of Thérèse's smile and outward reserve, subsequently discussing her role as novice mistress.

[23]Görres admits that human efforts played a significant role in the origination and propagation of the devotion to Thérèse,[24] but she also credits divine providence and confirmation as vital to the flourishing of the movement.

[25] In this chapter, Görres also claims that the particular circumstances of the saint's life allowed Thérèse to express a message that represents a hidden and widespread number of faithful members of the Church from throughout the centuries.

Benedict Groeschel, C.F.R., praised the book not only as an account of St. Thérèse but, in addition, he wrote, “One of the most outstanding biographies of a saint ever written is The Hidden Face, the life of Thérése of Lisieux, by Ida F.