Knowing the Love of God: Lessons from a Spiritual Master

by Réginald Garrigou-Lagrange

In this collection of retreat talks, the beloved Fr. Reginald Garrigou-Lagrange, O.P., gives us a blueprint for progress in the spiritual life. He particularly focuses on the goal of life as supernatural life and love, the obstacles in life brought about by evil and sin, Our Lord and His redemptive work as the source of the spiritual life, how mortification and acceptance of our crosses help us resist sin, and conformity to Christ by prayer and devotion to Mary.

As always, Fr. Garrigou-Lagrange’s book is permeated with rich doctrine and is ideal for devotional use. Knowing the Love of God will help those known and loved by God to know and love the same God.

Genres: Catholic, Theology, Spirituality, Nonfiction, Christianity, Religion, Prayer

162 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1969

About the author

Réginald Marie Garrigou-Lagrange, O.P. (February 21, 1877, Auch, France – February 15, 1964, Rome) was a Catholic theologian and, among Thomists of the scholastic tradition, is generally thought to be the greatest Catholic Thomist of the 20th century. He taught at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas, commonly known as the Angelicum, in Rome from 1909 to 1960.

Father Garrigou-Lagrange initially attracted attention when he wrote against the theological movement later called Modernism. He is also said to be the drafter or "ghostwriter" of Pope Pius XII's 1950 encyclical Humani Generis, subtitled "Concerning Some False Opinions Threatening to Undermine the Foundations of Catholic Doctrine."

He is best known for his spiritual theology. His magnum opus in the field is The Three Ages of the Interior Life, in which he propounded the thesis that infused contemplation and the resulting mystical life are in the normal way of holiness of Christian perfection.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reginald...

Reviews

[J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is phenomenal, this reviewer has stated in other reviews that sometimes the best books are the shorter ones, the ones that can deliver the information in a most concise manner, without sacrificing quality, and this is one of them. The layout of the book is such that it describes things typically in a "What-Why-How" format and for people today that is most important to deliver to them so that they might grow in the interior life of Grace.

This book has high re-readability and its counseled to do so, it also has the ability to be a book both for intellectual investigation while also being a spiritual devotional for a Retreat, albeit one that is long, if one wants to get the whole book accomplished. This book is written by one of the greater spiritual heavyweights in the Catholic Church during the 20th Century, he even taught Pope St. John Paul II as well.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. This book made me cry several times. Succinct and I love how he puts all these reminders to bring things up with spiritual directors. He speaks of many of the basics in the Faith life in a way that is easy to understand and implement (after speaking to your spiritual director of course). 😉

[Joseph Maimone · Rating 5 out of 5]

I often use the word wonderful when reviewing books I've read, for wonderful they are. This one is set apart in its wonder and efficaciousness. It is one of those rare books to be slowly chewed and digested, worth taking 3 or 4 years to grow in life along with the read. It is He who initiates and prompts along the way. It is up to us whether or when, withered or worn, we respond.

[Christopher McCaffery · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really wonderful spiritual guidance.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible treatise covering a multitude of spiritual topics. Garrigou-Lagrange was one of JPII's theological mentors, and this book is a heavy but must-read for anyone looking to deepen their union with God.

[Anna Maria Cartaya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow wow wow. First book club book! This book was amazing and thorough. Don't be fooled by the simple title this book challenged me so much. Thank you, Fr. Reginald.

[Ian Clary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reginald Garrigou-Lagrange is most thought of today as a very strict Thomist whose approach to philosophy and theology was in some respects what the nouvelle theologie was moving away from. As brilliant an analytic thinker as he was -- I read 'Thomistic Common Sense' a few years ago and it blew my mind -- his actual teaching responsibilities at the Angelicum had to do with spirituality. In fact, he is the first to ever to have held a chair in Spiritual Theology. 'Knowing the Love of God' is the fruit of his long years of spiritual reflection. The chapters were each originally delivered as retreat talks -- I'm not sure if these were given at the famous Thomistic retreats hosted by the Maritains -- and so they feel less academic than his other writings. They are, however, grounded in very deep scholarly reflection on Thomist spirituality. While as a Protestant I don't agree with everything he said, for instance, his Mariology would be much higher than mine. But even in my disagreements, I learned a lot. The chapter on humility, however, is worth the price of the book.
I read this book very slowly, over about a year, with some breaks, and I'm glad I did. It allowed me to think more deeply about what RGL was explaining and advising on the spiritual life.

[Richard Grebenc · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was offered this book for the price of shipping so I thought I would check it out. I recognized the author as St. John Paul's academic mentor and realized that it would be solid but I was a bit concerned that it might be a bit too academic for a spiritual work.

But, since I was looking to begin reading something with a spiritual bent from a Dominican I decided to dive in quickly. I'm so glad I did! Profound, but not difficult for the educated and engaged reader. Originally called "The Last Writings of Réginald Garrigou-Lagrange," and long out of print, Ignatius Press and Augustine Institute decided to republish this great work of conferences he did for Dominicans. We are blessed for it.

The chapters are short, usually about 10-12 pages. I faithfully read one chapter per day. An absolutely excellent journey through many aspects of the spiritual life. While directed to monastics, virtually everything he says is translatable to persons from any walk of life.

Worth reading again and again.

[Daniel Carey · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful book of inspired instructions on mortifying our worldly passions while focusing and growing closer in relationship to God through practices of mental prayer, humility and human charity. Fr. Garrigou-Lagrange was the spiritual instructor of St. Pope John XXIII and St. Pope JP II and his mastery of the works of Thomas Aquinus is very apparent. He also makes Thomas's language accessible in clear words of wisdom and experience that any reader of the 20th or 21st century can grasp.

A highly satisfying book to read while in mediation or before the blessed sacrament in adoration.

[Kim Padan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was incredibly beautiful. It's not a book to read quickly, but one to take in gradually so it soaks in. I have read a little of Garrigou-LaGrange in the past, but usually struggle with his writing. This gem, being a collection of retreat homilies, was much more accessible in my opinion. And it is the type of book I will certainly re-read.

[Amanda Weaver · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an outstanding book. I learned so much. It's full of wisdom. I am planning to go back over what I underlined to digest it more. I highly recommend this book to novices and those who have been Christian for their lifetime. It is especially geared toward those in religious communities, but it easily applies to all people, so don't let that stop you from reading this book.

[Paul Gelinas · Rating 5 out of 5]

A superb book - Although it's primarily directed at religious, the book offers excellent spiritual insight and instruction

[Vincent B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Réginald Garrigou-Lagrange is one of the greatest 20th Century theologians and hence he clearly articulates some of the confusing parts of spiritual pretty logical and straightforward to understand.

[Ian Grantham · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Knowing the Love of God" by Fr. Reginald Garrigou-Lagrange is a poignant and spiritually enriching work that resonates deeply with both the clergy and laypeople alike. This book follows in the Thomistic tradition of Fr. Garrigou-Lagrange, whose earlier works like "The Three Ages of the Interior Life" and "Christian Perfection and Contemplation" have significantly influenced my understanding of spirituality.

The book is noted for its exceptional clarity and simplicity in presenting profound theological concepts. This characteristic makes it accessible to a broad audience without sacrificing the depth of its message. Fr. Garrigou-Lagrange's lessons, originally addressed to Dominican Friars, are presented in such a way that priests and laypeople can easily discern and apply the teachings in their own spiritual journeys. This adaptability of the content speaks to its universal applicability and relevance.

The thematic richness of the book is one of its most striking features. It delves into essential Catholic topics such as sin, chastity, prayer, and obedience with a special emphasis on the Blessed Mother. The chapter on the Blessed Mother is particularly noteworthy, hailed by many as the highlight of the book. The balance struck between the consolations of Catholic doctrines and the challenging, yet necessary, precepts of the faith is masterful.

Moreover, the book's biblically inspired chapters offer a refreshing and inspiring take on scripture and its application in daily life. Readers have described experiencing a profound sense of grace while engaging with this work, a testament to Fr. Garrigou-Lagrange’s ability to convey spiritual truths in a deeply moving manner.

For those familiar with Fr. Garrigou-Lagrange's works or those new to his teachings, "Knowing the Love of God" is an excellent starting point to delve into the riches of 20th-century Thomistic theology. Its ability to convey complex theological ideas with simplicity and depth makes it an invaluable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Catholic faith and practice.

In conclusion, "Knowing the Love of God" stands as a testament to Fr. Reginald Garrigou-Lagrange's profound understanding of the spiritual life. It is a book that not only imparts knowledge but also invites the reader into a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. Its impact is lasting, making it a cherished addition to any spiritual library.

[Ted Leon · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an excellent book! Felt like a thorough guided retreat by a very wise Jesuit. Some portions were most helpful for those in religious community, but still relevant. Really good!

[Jed Park · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although written for religious, this book is incredibly beneficial for any wanting to live a holy life.

[John Jude McGuinness · Rating 4 out of 5]

Challenging, but rewarding.