![Introduction to the Devout Life by Francis De Sales Introduction to the Devout Life by Francis De Sales](https://cdn11.bigcommerce.com/s-l413yxjy4x/images/stencil/300x300/products/7742/9841/9780375725623-2__28602.1645736319.jpg?c=1)
Published in 1609, Introduction to the Devout Life evolved from letters of spiritual direction from St. Francis de Sales to his cousin. De Sales wrote, “My purpose is to instruct those who live in town, within families, or at court, and are obliged to live an ordinary life as to outward appearances.
“Wherever
we may be, we can and should aspire to the perfect life.” Indeed,
the genius of this book is that it is addressed to “the common
person” as contrasted to only the clergy, religious, and others
living apart from the world. Introduction to the Devout
Life consists of 5 smaller books
dealing with the stages of a believer's spiritual journey. De Sales
believes that each of us is called to be holy and therefore this
union with God is not only attainable but also possible and desirable
– in this life! St. Francis' optimism about our ability to
cooperate with God in the work of our redemption is a most wonderful
gift that he gives the Body of Christ.
Paperback, 320 pp.
Measures 5" by 7 1/2".