Mother Thérèse’s notebook containing prayers written in pencil, circa 14×22 cm. Source : MM, FT 3, T.A.1.2.1.6.

In March of 1880, two decrees were passed in France. They ordered the dissolution of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) and prohibited religious congregations from running schools. Male religious congregations were threatened with expulsion.

It was probably during that month of March that Mother Thérèse wrote a prayer for France. There are two versions: one was given by Mother Thérèse to her superior in Lyon, whilst the other is found in a small prayer book written by Mother Thérèse herself. It is this latter version that is included here.