Classics

De Sales' classic has been described as "a masterpiece of psychology, practical morality, and common sense" and, after The Bible and The Imitation of Christ, is the widest read spiritual book of all time. Unlike many others, Devout Life was written specifically for lay persons and it demonstrates a rare sensitivity to the demands of life in a world that is often antagonistic to spirituality. In this first-of-its-kind edition, Fr. John-Julian offers a fresh translation, a most thorough historical introduction, and notes explaining points of language and theology along the way.

This translation of Augustine's most popular work was done by Maria Boulding and is considered "of a different level of excellence from practically anything else on the market" (Rowan Williams, Archbishop of Canterbury).

The Confessions of Saint Augustine is considered the all-time number one Christian classic. Augustine undertook his greatest piece of writing with the conviction that God wanted him to make this confession. The Confessions are, in fact, an extended poetic, passionate, intimate prayer. Augustine was probably forty-three when he began this endeavor. He had been a baptized Catholic for ten years, a priest for six, and a bishop for only two. His pre-baptismal life raised questions in the community. Was his conversion genuine? The first hearers were captivated, as many millions have been over the following sixteen centuries. His experience of God speaks to us across time with little need for transpositions. This new translation masterfully captures his experience.

The Imitation of Christ, a deeply spiritual book by Thomas à Kempis, is the one book second only to the Bible in popularity among Catholics. Throughout this book, readers will find themselves experiencing the peace and wisdom that have comforted believers from all corners of the world. The pages of this consoling guide show readers how better to live the life of a Christian by closely following Christ's example. The Imitation of Christ will help to enable those seeking guidance in the midst of today's challenges to find encouragement to imitate Christ in many of life's situations.

The text is enhanced by illustrations throughout, including classic full-color images of the 20 Mysteries of the Rosary and the 14 Stations of the Cross.

The spiritual classic by a Kempis, the second most widely read spiritual book after the Bible, has had an astonishing impact on the spiritual lives of countless saints, peasants, and popes for centuries. Even today, the soul-searching words of the fifteenth-century cleric Thomas a Kempis continue to resonate, unbounded by time or geography. Drawing on the Bible, the Fathers of the early Church and medieval mysticism, his four-part treatise shrugs off the allure of the material world, blending beauty and bluntness in a supremely spiritual call-to-arms.

This beautiful translation by Ronald Knox and Michael Oakley is considered by many teachers, writers, and readers to be the best English translation ever, and one that greatly enhances the life-changing insights of Thomas a Kempis. Illustrated.

"If we could construct a composite picture of all great Christians--Catholic or non-Catholic--of the last five hundred years who found The Imitation substantially beneficial, enlightening, and inspiring, we would need no further proof that familiarity with this great classic is an integral part of a mature spiritual life and even a path to holiness."
--Father Benedict J. Groeschel, C.F.R., Author, Arise From Darkness

That's the primary question Thomas à Kempis answers in his universally acclaimed work, The Imitation of Christ. In 114 short chapters organized into four simple parts, this handbook on the spiritual life offers guidance on dozens of topics such as resisting temptation, avoiding hasty judgments, putting up with others' faults, remembering God's many blessings, self-surrender, minding our own business, and performing humble works.

William Creasy succeeds in creating a dramatically different interpretation of The Imitation of Christ by working through its historical, cultural, and linguistic contexts.

This book inspired the likes of St. Thomas More, St. Ignatius of Loyola, Thérèse of Lisieux, Dorothy Day, and Thomas Merton. Along with such classics as Augustine's Confessions, Teresa of Avila's Interior Castle, and Ignatius's Spiritual Exercises, The Imitation of Christ continues to confront each generation of readers with the perennial truths of the Gospel.

Countless saints from Therese of Liseux to Ignatius of Loyola have kept this book on their nightstands, used it to direct their minds during adoration, and carried it in their pockets as a soldier carries his weapon into battle.

This classic and treasured edition, aptly entitled My Imitation of Christ, is crafted specifically for the busy person in the modern world. Here's why it is "My" Imitation of Christ:

- Pocket size: Perfect for purse, pants or jacket. Having this book on your person reminds you to imitate Christ always - without exception.

- 117 Illustrations: With seemingly miraculous power, Ariel Agemian's timeless depictions of modern man (in suit and tie) carrying his cross, tempted by Satan to vain pursuits but called by Christ to eternal life. Your soul will be forever imprinted by an image of man's attempt to be in the world - but not of it.

- Durable Flex Cover: far more resilient than your average book. If you use this book properly, it will take a beating.

- Reading Guide: In the back, 42 practical topics with references to guide you through your spiritual reading. Ex.: "Are you discouraged? Read Book III, Chap. 56" "Are you vain? Read Book I, Chap. 2, 7." With over 40 of these, you're bound to find yourself somewhere.

- Index: Not your everyday index. Hundreds of topics with every reference in the book cited. Here are your answers to nearly every spiritual issue - if you use it.

If you wish to be in the world, but not of the world, there is no better edition of this timeless classic than My Imitation of Christ.

A portion of the proceeds from every purchase of this Confraternity of the Precious Blood title go directly to The Sisters Adorers of the Precious Blood in Brooklyn, NY to support them in their vocation.