Salesian Literature

Salesian Views on

::   Sacraments  ::   Self-love  ::   Self-purification  ::   Simplicity  ::   Spiritual Direction  

::   Spiritual Exercises  ::   Spiritual Integration  ::   Spirituality  ::   Suffering  ::   Surrender

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Spiritual Direction

 

Letters of Spiritual Direction, Theme V: In Salesian direction the point is not to instruct but to appeal to the whole person through their vital centre, to make Jesus live by winning the heart through persuasion and gentle encouragement.

 

Commentary

Do you wish to set out earnestly on the way to devotion?  Seek out a good person to guide and help you.  You will never find the will of God so surely as by seeking it through this way of mutual discernment, as did the devout men of old.  Pray earnestly for God to provide you with a Spiritual Director according to His heart, and have no doubt that even if He should have to send an angel from heaven, as He did to the young Tobias, He will give you one that is good and faithful. Look upon this Spiritual Director not as a mere human being, nor trust in him or her as such, but in God, Who will favour you and speak to you through this person.  The Holy Spirit will enable him or her to discern whatever you need for your happiness.  Be open in all sincerity and fidelity, revealing clearly your strengths and limitations.  Have the greatest confidence, mingled with reverence.  This friendship must be strong, yet gentle, holy and spiritual, always rooted in God.  This guide must be full of charity, knowledge and prudence.  If one of these qualities is waning, there is danger.  Ask God to give you such a one, and bless and thank His goodness when you have found the right person.

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