We have all heard it said that: "Behind the accomplishments of every great man, there stands a woman." Indeed, it is often true! Very often, it takes just a simple suggestion on the part of someone, along with an expression of his or her confidence in us, to move us to some action - an action which, without that friendly encouragement, might never be undertaken. In one instance this certainly appears to have been the case in the life of St. Francis de Sales.
When first published in January l609, Francis de Sales' Introduction to the Devout Life was instantly recognized as a major contribution to our understanding of the spiritual life. Written for the laity, this work assures all men and women that it was not necessary that they reside in a convent or monastery in order to live a "devout" or "holy" life.
As remarkable as this work is, it is interesting to note that, had it not been for the strong urging of one of his relatives and of her confessor, Francis de Sales might never have published this remarkable compendium of spiritual advice. During his lifetime, Francis gave spiritual direction to many individuals. Often, when distance prevented Francis from speaking personally with those he was advising, he would write long letters of instruction in which he answered their questions and gave them spiritual direction - from afar.
In early 1607, a cousin of Francis de Sales who was staying in Annecy, Madame Marie de Charmoisy, asked Francis to become her spiritual advisor. He agreed to advise Marie - and he continued to advise her by letter after Marie left Annecy to return home to Paris in late 1607. Marie was impressed with the letters Francis sent and felt that others could profit from their wisdom. She showed the letters to her confessor in Paris, Father Jean Fourier, S.J., and asked his opinion. Father Fourier, who had known Francis for many years and who was also very impressed with the letters, contacted Francis and urged him to publish them. Francis agreed. He arranged the content of Marie's letters, added the content of other letters written to other people, and then joined them together with a commentary. The manuscript was ready for printing in late 1608.
Although nearly 400 years old, this spiritual classic continues to be relevant today. One could liken it to a 17th century version of "Devotion for Dummies" or some similar title with which we might be familiar. Of course, in the Salesian tradition, there are no dummies, only everyday saints who are invited to treat their brothers and sisters in ways that are right and good in God's eyes: to live each and every day well, and to encourage others to do the same.
This spiritual classic stands on its own. Still, this study/reflection guide serves as a vehicle or guide for "breaking open" the rich bouquet of inspirations, consolations challenges and just plain good advice that are part and parcel of the Salesian tradition.
We hope that this study guide to the Introduction to the Devout Life will encourage you and enliven your own faith, helping you to crawl, walk, run - even fly - in the ways of God…day in, day out, in your little corner of the world. May you embrace the ordinary extraordinarily well.
Link to Study Guide in Word
Link to Study Guide as PDF
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