Vincent de Paul and Louise de Marillac both held Saint Francis de Sales in high esteem.  His “Introduction to the Devout Life” occupied a prominent place in their personal spirituality as well as in the formation offered to the membership of the Vincentian Family.

The “Introduction” was written by Francis to serve as a means of spiritual direction for his cousin, Madame Marie de Charmoisy.  Her desire to lead a more pious life, despite all the distractions of the court, prompted Francis to begin his correspondence with her.  When the content of these letters became more widely known, Francis was encouraged to publish them.  He did that in 1609.  The volume achieved great popularity in both Catholic and Protestant circles and quickly became translated for the use of an even wider circle of readers and seekers after a deeper spiritual life.

Followers of Vincent would have no difficulty discerning many of the values and practices that became part of his life, teaching, and preaching in Francis’ words.  I find Vincent’s writing clear and practical.  Francis deals with many of the same themes in a more colorful and personal style.  I marvel at the number of illustrations and examples that populate Francis’ lessons.  One can easily see why he would have been a very popular speaker and preacher in his time.  He and Vincent were friends and kindred spirits.

During this year, I have been using the “Introduction to the Devout Life” as part of my reflection for Morning Prayer.  The “chapters” of the text are short—one or two pages on a given theme.  As is my wont, I began by reading a few chapters at each sitting.  (The goal, of course, being to finish the work as quickly as possible so as to move on to the next project!)  I soon realized, however, how impossible was this practice.  The chapters contain so many ideas and illustrations that one could not follow them without a more careful reading.  And so, I have restricted myself to one chapter at a time.  It has worked much better for me.

I can hear Vincent in many of the ideas and emphases of Francis.  It is easy to see how our Founder could have been in admiration and emulation of this reflective saint.  Vincent’s insistence upon using this text for the formation of his followers makes eminent sense.  Some of the writing clearly suggests the emphases of another era, but the call to holiness and attention to the poor is unmistakable.

Yesterday, I read Chapter XXXV entitled, “We must Be Faithful in Things Great and Small.”  After speaking of the need to be attentive to important matters and duties, Francis writes:

“Meanwhile, do not neglect your spindle and distaff.  I mean, cultivate those lowly virtues which spring like flowers round the foot of the cross, such as ministering to the poor and sick, family cares, and the duties arising therefrom, and practical diligence and activity; and amid all these things cultivate such spiritual thoughts as St. Catherine intermingled with her work.”

We, who give St. Vincent and Louise a dominant place in our following of Christ, would find these words understandable and compelling.