Nun's remains on first UK visit

She was described by Pope Pius X as "the greatest saint of modern times"

People in Somerset will get a rare chance to take a look at a 19th Century saint's remains on their first visit to the UK.

The relics, in an ornate coffin, of 24-year-old French nun Saint Therese de Lisieux go on display over the weekend at the Catholic church in Taunton.

Therese de Lisieux (1873-1897), a Carmelite nun, was canonised in 1925.

She is recognised as a Doctor of the Church - one of only three women to receive the honour.

Here fame rests on her very popular spiritual autobiography "The Story of My Soul".

"My mission - to make God loved - will begin after my death," she said. "I will spend my heaven doing good on earth. I will let fall a shower of roses."

The Roman Catholic Church said the relics, have been credited with promoting healing and reconciliation, are likely to draw huge crowds.

She was described by Pope Pius X as "the greatest saint of modern times".

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