This Treatise which I now present you, may be in some way serviceable to you, and that in it you will meet with many wholesome considerations which you would not elsewhere so easily find. We all look towards the glory of holy love. my intention is only to represent simply and naively, without art, still more without false colors, the history of the birth, progress, decay, operations, properties, advantages and excellences of divine love. This Treatise then is made for a soul already devout that she may be able to advance in her design, and hence I have been forced to say many things somewhat...

2011 Reprint of 1956 Edition Translated by Michael Day at The Newman Press. Full facsimile of the original edition, not reproduced with Optical Recognition Software. "Introduction to the Devout Life" is the most popular Catholic "self-help" book of all time. First published in the early 17th century, it has proven its value as a daily spiritual guide and helpful reference for living an authentic Christian life. Written specifically for laymen, it began as letters from Saint Francis to a married woman who was seeking holiness amidst the distractions of her life of wealth and status. It...

Written over 400 years ago, Introduction to the Devout Life is still one of the most popular books for those pursuing holiness. St. Francis de Sales explains how to turn that desire for sanctity into resolutions that yield grace-filled results.

Themes include:

• Pursuing a devout life whole-heartedly
• Incorporating prayer and sacraments into a busy
  schedule
• Growing in virtue
• Battling wisely against temptation
• Making spiritual progress through daily, monthly, and yearly exercises

Whether you are just beginning your...