What do you think?
Rate this book
The Ascetical Works #II
The Way of Salvation and of Perfection
Containing Three Parts:
Part 1: Meditations: Suitable for All Times During the Year (Originally published in 1767).
Part 2: Pious Reflections on Different Points of Spirituality (Originally published in 1773).
Part 3: Spiritual Treatises (Published at various times).
THIS volume contains the quintessence of the science of the saints. It gives a correct idea of the spirit, of the heart, and of the talent of Saint Alphonsus: one might say that in it his whole soul is poured out. The entire work is divided into three parts. In the first, we resume, under another form, the considerations on the eternal truths or the Last Things, treated at greater length in the preceding volume. The second part traces and paves the way that leads to divine love, or to sanctity and true happiness, and inspires us at the same time with the desire, the zeal, and the courage to undertake everything to reach this end. The third part transports us to the summit of the holy mountain, or Christian perfection, shows us in detail the mysteries of the interior life, and enables us to breathe its sweetest perfume. ? Some persons have objected that the writings of Saint Alphonsus contain many repetitions. This is true in regard to the ascetical works; but these repetitions are not useless. There is no question here of a study, a scientific work done for the sole purpose of exercising the mind. It is a food destined to give strength to the life of the soul. Each one takes for himself everyday the amount that agrees with his spiritual temperament. But let us hear what the author himself says in regard to this matter: "I entreat my readers not to grow weary if in those prayers they always find petitions for the grace of perseverance and the grace of divine love. For us, these are the two graces most necessary for the attainment of eternal salvation." 1 He also says: "One should not find it tiresome that I repeat the texts that I have already cited several times. . . . The authors of pernicious books, who treat of obscene things, reproduce even to satiety their impure sallies in order to inflame their imprudent readers with the fire of concupiscence; and should it not be permitted to me to repeat sacred texts that are most suitable to inflame souls with divine love ?" 2 Ah, let us never grow tired of reading and meditating on what the holy bishop has had the patience to write so many times for our benefit.
Part 1: Meditations: Suitable for All Times During the Year (Originally published in 1767).
Part 2: Pious Reflections on Different Points of Spirituality (Originally published in 1773).
Part 3: Spiritual Treatises (Published at various times).
THIS volume contains the quintessence of the science of the saints. It gives a correct idea of the spirit, of the heart, and of the talent of Saint Alphonsus: one might say that in it his whole soul is poured out. The entire work is divided into three parts. In the first, we resume, under another form, the considerations on the eternal truths or the Last Things, treated at greater length in the preceding volume. The second part traces and paves the way that leads to divine love, or to sanctity and true happiness, and inspires us at the same time with the desire, the zeal, and the courage to undertake everything to reach this end. The third part transports us to the summit of the holy mountain, or Christian perfection, shows us in detail the mysteries of the interior life, and enables us to breathe its sweetest perfume. ? Some persons have objected that the writings of Saint Alphonsus contain many repetitions. This is true in regard to the ascetical works; but these repetitions are not useless. There is no question here of a study, a scientific work done for the sole purpose of exercising the mind. It is a food destined to give strength to the life of the soul. Each one takes for himself everyday the amount that agrees with his spiritual temperament. But let us hear what the author himself says in regard to this matter: "I entreat my readers not to grow weary if in those prayers they always find petitions for the grace of perseverance and the grace of divine love. For us, these are the two graces most necessary for the attainment of eternal salvation." 1 He also says: "One should not find it tiresome that I repeat the texts that I have already cited several times. . . . The authors of pernicious books, who treat of obscene things, reproduce even to satiety their impure sallies in order to inflame their imprudent readers with the fire of concupiscence; and should it not be permitted to me to repeat sacred texts that are most suitable to inflame souls with divine love ?" 2 Ah, let us never grow tired of reading and meditating on what the holy bishop has had the patience to write so many times for our benefit.
- GenresCatholicSpirituality
510 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1886
50 people are currently reading
108 people want to read
About the author
Alfonso María de Liguori
1,223 books188 followersSaint Alfonso María de Liguori, CSsR (1696–1787), was an Italian Catholic bishop, spiritual writer, composer, musician, artist, poet, lawyer, scholastic philosopher, and theologian.
He founded the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer (the Redemptorists). In 1762 he was appointed Bishop of Sant'Agata dei Goti. A prolific writer, he published nine editions of his "Moral Theology" in his lifetime, in addition to other devotional and ascetic works and letters. Among his best known works are "The Glories of Mary" and "The Way of the Cross", the latter still used in parishes during Lenten devotions.
He was canonized in 1839 by Pope Gregory XVI and proclaimed a Doctor of the Church by Pope Pius IX in 1871. One of the most widely read Catholic authors, he is the patron saint of confessors.
He founded the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer (the Redemptorists). In 1762 he was appointed Bishop of Sant'Agata dei Goti. A prolific writer, he published nine editions of his "Moral Theology" in his lifetime, in addition to other devotional and ascetic works and letters. Among his best known works are "The Glories of Mary" and "The Way of the Cross", the latter still used in parishes during Lenten devotions.
He was canonized in 1839 by Pope Gregory XVI and proclaimed a Doctor of the Church by Pope Pius IX in 1871. One of the most widely read Catholic authors, he is the patron saint of confessors.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
December 21, 2018
This book is the first Christian daily meditation book that I have finished by reading it on a daily basis. It felt as if the book was holding on to me instead of me holding on to the book. I have collected many beautiful quotes from this book. I will share the most beautiful one here: "Our God is omnipotent: who then shall ever overcome and conquer him? But no, says St. Bernard, love towards man has conquered and triumphed over him: for, his love has caused him to die in torments upon a disgraceful cross to secure man's salvation. O infinite love, unhappy soul that loves thee not!". This is a beautiful book that not only displays the great love that St Alphonsus de Liguori has for Christ, but it also helps the reader to grow in love for Christ. This is worth reading, every page contains great treasures!
November 26, 2022
Are you suffering, looking for something to challenge you during personal meditation or feeling spiritual dryness during your prayer time? This collection of writings from St. Alphonsus de Liguori may be the book for you. Originally published in 1886, his writings are still relevant today. They will challenge you, help you to find meaning in your suffering and aid you in persevering in your prayer life.
June 23, 2025
This guide is absolutely packed with repetitions, and they're so effective! It's like the message becomes a part of you, and you become a part of the message. It's like you're learning a lesson, what the title promises to teach.
St. Alphonsus Liguori's Part II in "The Way of Salvation and of Perfection" is an intimate guide for souls yearning to deepen their love for God. In these reflections, he calls on the faithful to examine their inner lives, recognize their frailties, and acknowledge the ever-present need for divine mercy. Alphonsus does not merely follow external forms of worship; he invites believers to open their hearts to a transformative process. In this process, sincere repentance, humility, and a heartfelt desire for conversion become the stepping stones toward spiritual perfection.
At its core, Part II emphasizes that true progress in the love of God comes from an internal reorientation of the soul. Alphonsus teaches that by constantly meditating on the mysteries of Christ's passion and resurrection, a believer can be continually renewed and uplifted. This reflective journey involves contemplating the inevitability of death and the transient nature of earthly life. It also involves understanding that these reflections should drive one to cherish every moment as an opportunity for sanctification. He insists that the soul must detach itself from worldly vanities and embrace a posture of enduring trust in God's compassion and providence.
Liguori emphasizes that advancing in the love of God is not a sudden leap but a gradual process marked by persistent prayer, self-examination, and the cultivation of virtuous habits. The reflections in Part II compel us to confront the bitter reality of sin. We must understand sin not as a cause for despair but as the impetus for profound inner change. The believer grows in holiness and steadily climbs the ladder toward perfection by recognizing one's imperfection and embracing the compassionate forgiveness of God—the faithful experience a renewed sense of hope and an ever-deepening intimacy with the divine.
St. Alphonsus masterfully blends meditative thought with practical spiritual advice, creating a comprehensive roadmap for the soul's journey. His reflections guide believers to live a life where every moment is an opportunity to deepen their relationship with God—a relationship characterized by trust, sincere love, and a continuous effort to transform one's inner being into a true reflection of divine grace.
These teachings have long resonated with those seeking not just a ritualistic practice of faith but an all-encompassing transformation of the heart and mind—an inward pilgrimage toward the ultimate union with God. Alphonsus Liguori's reflections in Part II are a source of solace and motivation. They urge souls to follow the path of salvation through spiritual growth and a genuine love of God.
Liguori draws a logical conclusion about applying the teachings he has emphasized throughout the previous 280 pages. His final message aligns with the Lord’s own words: ‘Renounce all and come and follow me...’
“I thank Thee O my God! for having waited for me until now! I hope, through the merits of Jesus Christ, for the pardon of all my offences against Thee! I am sorry for them, and repent of them with my whole heart, because by them I have lost heaven and have deserved hell; but, above all, I am grieved to my inmost soul, and hate and detest my sins more than all evils, because they have offended Thy infinite goodness. I purpose in future rather to die than offend Thee any more.”
St. Alphonsus Liguori's Part II in "The Way of Salvation and of Perfection" is an intimate guide for souls yearning to deepen their love for God. In these reflections, he calls on the faithful to examine their inner lives, recognize their frailties, and acknowledge the ever-present need for divine mercy. Alphonsus does not merely follow external forms of worship; he invites believers to open their hearts to a transformative process. In this process, sincere repentance, humility, and a heartfelt desire for conversion become the stepping stones toward spiritual perfection.
At its core, Part II emphasizes that true progress in the love of God comes from an internal reorientation of the soul. Alphonsus teaches that by constantly meditating on the mysteries of Christ's passion and resurrection, a believer can be continually renewed and uplifted. This reflective journey involves contemplating the inevitability of death and the transient nature of earthly life. It also involves understanding that these reflections should drive one to cherish every moment as an opportunity for sanctification. He insists that the soul must detach itself from worldly vanities and embrace a posture of enduring trust in God's compassion and providence.
Liguori emphasizes that advancing in the love of God is not a sudden leap but a gradual process marked by persistent prayer, self-examination, and the cultivation of virtuous habits. The reflections in Part II compel us to confront the bitter reality of sin. We must understand sin not as a cause for despair but as the impetus for profound inner change. The believer grows in holiness and steadily climbs the ladder toward perfection by recognizing one's imperfection and embracing the compassionate forgiveness of God—the faithful experience a renewed sense of hope and an ever-deepening intimacy with the divine.
St. Alphonsus masterfully blends meditative thought with practical spiritual advice, creating a comprehensive roadmap for the soul's journey. His reflections guide believers to live a life where every moment is an opportunity to deepen their relationship with God—a relationship characterized by trust, sincere love, and a continuous effort to transform one's inner being into a true reflection of divine grace.
These teachings have long resonated with those seeking not just a ritualistic practice of faith but an all-encompassing transformation of the heart and mind—an inward pilgrimage toward the ultimate union with God. Alphonsus Liguori's reflections in Part II are a source of solace and motivation. They urge souls to follow the path of salvation through spiritual growth and a genuine love of God.
Liguori draws a logical conclusion about applying the teachings he has emphasized throughout the previous 280 pages. His final message aligns with the Lord’s own words: ‘Renounce all and come and follow me...’
“I thank Thee O my God! for having waited for me until now! I hope, through the merits of Jesus Christ, for the pardon of all my offences against Thee! I am sorry for them, and repent of them with my whole heart, because by them I have lost heaven and have deserved hell; but, above all, I am grieved to my inmost soul, and hate and detest my sins more than all evils, because they have offended Thy infinite goodness. I purpose in future rather to die than offend Thee any more.”
June 7, 2011
I would recommend this book to any christian... very helpful indeed.
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews