introduction to the devout life by st francis de sales

Unlike many other writings in this category, it is distinguished by addressing itself to all Christians in any state of life, rather than to just those who have been called to a religious vocation. De Sales explained: 'I address my words to Philothea, since I wish to direct what was first written to one person alone to the general benefit of many souls. While the letters are addressed to 'Philothea' (Lover of God), they include the substance of correspondence with others as well as Marie de Charmoisy. When Madame de Charmoisy returned to Paris, she showed the letters to her confessor, Jesuit Father Jean Fourier, who encouraged De Sales to publish them. (Marie de Charmoisy, or Louise de Charmoisy? The historical record suggests that her name was Louise, but somewhere around 2015, scholars start referring to her as Marie.) The correspondence began when Madame de Charmoisy, in Annecy, confided to Francis her desire for piety amidst the struggles and distractions associated with life at court. Introduction to the Devout Life is a compilation of letters and notes used in the spiritual direction of his cousin, Madame Marie de Charmoisy, the wife of an ambassador of the Duke of Savoy. Background ĭuring his lifetime, Francis de Sales gave spiritual direction to many individuals. The work is also used as a guide in Christian spiritual direction. Like The Imitation of Christ by Thomas a Kempis, it is considered a spiritual classic in the Christian tradition. It is typically categorized as a form of reading known as lectio divina ('divine reading'), based on the Christian monastic practice of spiritual reading. It enjoyed wide popularity, and was well received in both Protestant and Catholic circles, evidenced by its translation into all major languages of the day. The final edition was published in 1619, prior to the death of Francis in 1622. Introduction to the Devout Life (French: Introduction à la vie dévote) is a book written by Saint Francis de Sales, the first edition being published in 1609.

Introduction to the devout life by st francis de sales