Introduction to the Devout Life 

Complete and Unabridged

Translated and Edited by

FR. ANTONY MOOKENTHOTTAM, MSFS

FR. ARMIND NAZARETH, MSFS

FR. ANTONY KOLENCHERRY, MSFS

This book is indeed a masterpiece of spiritual life. Originally written in French 1607-08 and first published in 1609, this book was an overnight classic. Additional authorized editions were printed in 1609, 1610, 1612, 1613, 1618, etc. and numerous unauthorized editions (many being protestant plagiarisms with heretical additions and deletions) appeared in 1610, 1611, 1613, 1615, 1616, etc. The book was translated into over 17 different languages by the year 1656 and has had countless editions printed since. 

Pope Pius XI issued the Encyclical "Rerum Omnium" on Jan. 26th, 1923 (the 300th anniversary of St. Francis de Sales death) designating him the Patron Saint of Catholic Writers and Journalists. Quote from the Encyclical: "Would that this book, the most perfect of its kind in the judgment of his contemporaries, as it was at one time in the hands of all, were now read by all, so that true piety might everywhere flourish again, and the Church of God might rejoice in seeing sanctity common among her sons."