Consoling Thoughts On Sickness and Death

by Francis de Sales

In Consoling Thoughts on Sickness and Death , St. Francis de Sales, the beloved Doctor of the Church, teaches how to grow closer to God through suffering well the most bitter trials. The bed of sickness is an altar of sacrifice, writes the saint in this treasure of spirituality. He explains what prayers are suitable for the sick, how to persevere in patience, and even how to overcome an excessive fear of death. Most importantly, St. Francis de Sales teaches about abandonment to God s will in both life and death, drawing from his memories of the deaths of his own mother and sister. Readers of Consoling Thoughts on Sickness and Death will experience firsthand why St. Francis de Sales (1567-1622) is known to history as the Gentle Saint. St. Francis was Bishop of Geneva and a tireless preacher, who yet made time to correspond with numerous souls who wrote him for his insight and guidance. His Consoling Thoughts are compiled from these letters as well as from his other spiritual works.

Genres: Catholic, Religion

Paperback

First published January 24, 2013

About the author

Francis de Sales, C.O., T.O.M., A.O.F.M. Cap. (French: François de Sales; Italian: Francesco di Sales) was a Bishop of Geneva and is honored as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church. His father sent him to a good school when he was young, and he received spiritual formation from the Jesuits. After a disturbing spiritual fear of being condemned, he eventually resolved his problem and decided to dedicate his life to God in 1587. He became a doctor of law at the age of 24 at the Jesuit College of Clermont, Paris, and was ordained a priest by Bishop Claude de Granier and stationed in Geneva in 1593. He became bishop of Geneva in 1602.

Francis de Sales is the author of various collections of sermons on Mary, Lent, prayer and Christmastide. He was known as a spiritually understanding man as well as a friend of the poor. Though known for his great intellect and theological wisdom, he spoke with simplicity and earnestness, so that all could understand. An Introduction to the Devout Life, his best-loved work, is based on notes he wrote for a cousin for marriage, stressing that sanctity is possible in everyday life. He was canonized by Pope Alexander VII in 1665. His feast is celebrated on January 24.

Reviews

[Two Hearts Homeschool · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every Catholic needs this book on their shelves; but especially those who suffer from chronic pain or illness, or those whose loved ones are dying or have died. Many encouraging gems to commonplace. Also on Tan Books $5 book list for January 2021!

[Anya · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite writings on sickness and suffering so far. Truly has brought so much peace and new perspective when going through difficult times.

[MadeleineRoseReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do not be afraid to read this book! Just because it's on death, does not mean it is only for the dying. I can see where this would help when someone you love is sick or dying. I was nearing the end of this book when I got a cold myself at a very busy tume in my week. It was the perfect time to exercise some of these tips that St. Francis gives on suffering well. The first half of the book is about sickness while the end is more about death. Even if you simply have a stuffy nose, I think you should read it.

[Amy S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! It was in fact, very consoling. You can tell that St. Francis de Sales is writing as someone who has had experience with sickness and death, and he writes with great insight, compassion, and love.

[Collin Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good, short reflections primarily on the joy of accepting suffering as from the hand of the Lord.