Sermons of SFS on Prayer 

These sermons were translated from St. Francis de Sales' Oevres, Vol. IX (Annecy: Nierat,1892-1964), pp. 46-72. They come from the memories of two visitation sisters who heard them, and not from St. Francis' own notes. They are edited by Fr. Lewis S. Fiorelli OSFS (Published in English in 1985 by TAN books). This book shows how prayer is the key to all holiness. Shows the hidden meanings of Scripture (especially the Song of Songs) as applied to prayer. Great insights on Catholic doctrine and holiness by a saint declared a Doctor of the Church in 1877. (32 pgs)

These sermons are well chosen for an introduction to St. Francis de Sales.  They are very representative of the richness of his style.  And they treat of what he himself declares to be at the heart of all his teaching: “Prayer is so useful and necessary that without it we could into come to any good.”  At the same time, these sermons are immediately useful for our everyday life.  Francis gives us some clear understanding of the stages of growth in prayer, while still warning against getting caught up in a quest to “locate” ourselves on the journey.  He has a few lucid remarks on the importance of posture and symbol, and very practical ideas on preparation for prayer, the use of ejaculation, and praying the Our Father.  Most important, he reminds us that we go to prayer not to be good prayers or to enjoy the consolations of prayer; we go to prayer to find God and be united to Him.  Seek the God of consolation and not the consolations of God.  His teaching on prayer is clear, concise, and practical, and yet sublime.  It goes all the way, deftly handling the graces of contemplation and the exquisite purification of all the interior faculties – while the apex of the spirit clings to God, beginning “here below what we shall do eternally in Heaven.”

Table of Contents

PREFACE

INTRODUCTION

THE GOAL OF PRAYER 22 March 1615

THE SPIRIT OF PRAYER March 29, 1615

THE KINDS OF PRAYER April 5, 1615

THE HEART OF PRAYER April 12, 1615

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