Introduction to the Devout Life

[landon13]

Hi everyone,

I was listening to The Good Fight today on catholic radio and there was a priest who I didn’t catch his name (if you know it, please let me know!) talking about St. Francis de Sales Book, The Introduction to the Devout Life. So I pulled my copy off of my bookshelf and sat it on my nightstand to start!

Has anyone read this book or does anyone have any tips or thoughts about it?

Blessinggs

 

[Dorothy]

It is a classic book on how to live the Christian life.

I wouldn’t read it too fast. It is good to ponder and pray about what St. Francis de Sales is saying. There is much to ponder, so perhaps a few pages a day will be helpful.

St. Francis de Sales is a Doctor of the Church.

 

[reggieM]

I think you made a great decision to start reading that classic!
I’ve read it a couple of times, and I keep going back to it.
One of the key points St. Francis brings out is the need for a gentle approach to spiritual growth - nothing too drastic or severe. He writes about the virtues needed for living in the world and he brings his own experience in guiding people.
In his own life, he had a tendency to anger and harshness – so you’ll notice the great changes he made to himself by observing his writing which is very peaceful and serene. All of that kindness that he shows came at the price of a struggle - and he gives tips throughout on how we can do it.
At the same time, he doesn’t pull any punches or water down anything. He is able to tell us the harder-truths we don’t want to hear, but make them easy to digest and actually put into practice in our own lives.
I agree with the advice - go with a few pages a day. Bring those thoughts into your prayer and make changes in your life, little by little.

 

[ctb95]

I am currently reading Introduction to the Devout Life as well, and I second all the comments hear.

 

[jaimeleglise]

What I like about the book is the theme that lay people can be Holy and become Saints.

 

[womanatwell]

What I like about the book is the theme that lay people can be Holy and become Saints.

. It was started as letters to a married woman who sought a spiritual life despite everyday busy-ness.

Also, St. Francis de Sales is the patron saint of writers and journalists, so I guess all of us on CAF can consider him at least one of our patron saints!

 

[redbaron162]

I greatly recommend this book. It was one of my favorite books and a great book for those who are really looking in getting serious about the Christian life.