Saint

Use in the book

Saints are among the riches bestowed upon the reader, yet that language immediately creates practical obligations. Christ identifies himself with his apparently insignificant members; delight in the saints therefore requires tender service, almsgiving, and readiness to help. Their value cannot be measured by worldly visibility or status.

The circle extends through all ages. Patriarchs, apostles, martyrs, and the heavenly multitude can be present to thought, while the holiness of living neighbours is cultivated through ordinary virtues. Enjoying saints is consequently more demanding than admiring remote religious heroes. It asks the reader to become a person others can enjoy and to recognize holiness under poverty and disguise.

Places to read

1. I.54Saints of different ages are present within the soul’s contemplative company.
2. I.80Enjoying nearby saints requires virtues that make oneself amiable.
3. I.81Delight in the saints becomes practical service to Christ’s members.
4. II.74The redeemed multitude supplies a vision of heavenly company.

In this edition

The capitalized Saints does not by itself restrict the reference to canonized persons. Earthly and triumphant communities must be distinguished from context.