Saint Vincent of Lérins loved reading. 

In particular, he loved reading the Church Fathers who had gone before him. Vincent found his perfect reading spot as a monk in Lérins Abbey, nestled on an island that was a hotspot of Christian learning. 

At a time of deep division and heresy in the Church, Vincent found the answers he needed in the Scriptures and the writings of the saints. He responded to the Nestorian and Pelagian heresies by writing the Commonitorium, for which he is still remembered today. In that book, Vincent formulated his key to resolving theological conflicts in what became known as the Vincentian Canon: "What has been believed everywhere, always, and by all.”

That is, to learn what we should do in the present, we should look to the past to see what the saints and the Church have always said.

Saint Vincent of Lérins found the answers in spiritual reading. And we can too. 

In addition to the Scriptures, there are also a great many spiritual writers who can be of assistance to us in our adventure of salvation. These masters and mentors of the spiritual life are always available for consultation. Here's just a few books from incredible spiritual mentors to read next: Finding True Happiness by Fulton Sheen, Do Something Beautiful for God by Mother Teresa, Orthodoxy by G.K Chesterton, The Story of a Soul by St. Therese of Lisieux, Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis.

The great masters of spiritual writing are able to set aside the issues of the day and their own personal agendas, and place at the center of their writing God's dream for us to grow each day in virtue and holiness. In their writings, you will always hear a call to become a better person. As you read their words, you will constantly feel inspired and challenged to change, grow, and to become the-best-version-of-yourself.

They are very worthy mentors, and if you allow them into your life, they will reveal your defects with great discretion and kindness. They point out your weaknesses not to belittle you, but so that you might grow and become all you are capable of being. They do this by holding a spiritual mirror before you and calling you to self-examination. They then encourage you to make generous resolutions. They lead you into divine cooperation with the Holy Spirit. They will also teach you how to maximize the impact and influence of your strengths.

Books change our lives, because what we read today walks and talks with us tomorrow. 

What book are you most excited to read next?

Feast Day: May 24—Our Lady Help Of Christians (2024)