Introduction to the Devout Life

Introduction to the Devout Life is a book written by Francis de Sales, Bishop of Geneva and a saint in the Catholic Church. it is considered a spiritual classic in the Christian tradition. The work is also used as a guide in Christian spiritual direction. The 'Introduction' is composed of five parts or 'books', each pertaining to a stage in the Christian's spiritual journey. Part I: Attaining a Firm Resolution to the Devout Life Part II: Prayer and the Sacraments Part III: The Practice of Virtue (patience, meekness, humility, obedience, chastity, and poverty) Part IV: Some Ordinary Temptations and how to overcome them Part V: Renewing and Confirming the Soul in Devotion

Francis de Sales (1567-1622) was a Bishop of Geneva and is revered as a saint in the Catholic Church. He became noted for his deep faith and his gentle approach to the religious divisions in his land resulting from the Protestant Reformation. He is known also for his writings on the topic of spiritual direction and spiritual formation, particularly the Introduction to the Devout Life and the Treatise on the Love of God.