
Filotea: Uvod u pobožni život
The work of St. Francis de Sales, written in 1609, is a spiritual guide intended for laypeople who wish to live a pious life in their daily lives. Written as a series of letters to Philothea (“lover of God”), Francis offers practical advice for spiritual
The book is divided into five parts, each focusing on a different aspect of the Christian life. The first part focuses on motivation for piety, urging readers to cleanse their souls of sin through confession and penance. The second part deals with prayer and meditation, emphasizing the importance of daily contemplation and the Eucharist. Francis advises simple methods, such as morning prayer and spiritual reading. The third part discusses virtues, such as patience, humility, and charity, with instructions on how to apply them in relationships with others. The fourth part warns against spiritual pitfalls, such as worldly temptations and excessive attachment to material things. The fifth part offers advice for renewing spiritual commitment through regular introspection and decisions for a pious life.
Francis writes with gentleness and understanding, emphasizing that holiness is available to all, regardless of social standing. His style is practical, warm, and encouraging, making Philothea a timeless work. The work has been praised for its simplicity and universality, and continues to serve as an inspiration for Christian life in the modern world.
One copy is available