The Secret of the Cure d'Ars

by Henri Ghéon

The life of St. John Vianney (1784-1859) was marked by boundless humility and obedience to God. In 1818, when this simple French priest was assigned to the parish of Ars -- a town of just 250 people -- few would have guessed that it would lead to his international notoriety (even without modern communications!). You will see how this happened -- how Vianney's tireless work in his parish quickly flowered into a radical spiritual transformation of the community and its surroundings. Acclaimed dramatist Henri Ghéon presents a model of great holiness whom all readers can appreciate. Vianney "cured souls and bodies," he writes. "He read hearts like a book. And the Blessed Virgin visited him, and the foul fiend dragged him by the heels but could not prevent him from being a saint." The Curé is not only the patron of parish priests but is also a powerful intercessor for those struggling with studies or suffering from inner turmoil or exhaustion. By 1827, he was receiving visitors from all over France and beyond, sometimes spending up to sixteen hours a day in the confessional. Despite his success in Ars, Vianney longed for a contemplative life free from his public obligations. He tried pursuing this on several occasions but fled from it each time, always returning to Ars. You will see how the devil frequently harassed and attacked the Curé, which Ghéon recounts in shocking detail. You will marvel as you learn
Vianney did not mince words in his homilies but reminded the faithful of the need to repent. Direct passages from some of his most impassioned sermons are interspersed throughout this work. When he died, the bishop presided over the Curé's funeral with more than three hundred priests and six thousand people in attendance!

Genres: Catholic, Religion

176 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1929

Reviews

[Stephen · Rating 5 out of 5]

He considered himself as Martha but he actually was a Mary. All his actions were prayers....all 16 hours a day....everyday....for 30 years as Cure d'Ars. What an inspirational priest. In our day, priests are predominately effeminate and weak due to the prelates predilection. One hopes and prays that there is a iota of the Cure within all of them. The flock is in need....dire need.

[MrsRead1 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Henri Gheon has a somewhat poetic style which is very engaging. Happily, it does not affect his biography in making it flowery, but enables him to bring the reader accurately into a scene of long ago. His Cure is a solidly real human being.

This book is very short, and you'll find yourself counting the remaining pages as you go. Highly recommend.

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wouldn’t read this for a critical review of this saint’s life, but it’s an excellent spiritual read and a quick one to boot. Ghéon is a lively and insightful writer and I will be sure to read his biography of St. Thérèse of Lisieux as well.

[Xavi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oxalá todas as hagiografias e biografias fossem tão boas como esta!

[Fr. Kyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book on the life of St. Jean Marie Vianney. Gheon does a good job of showing the greatness of this saint