Every contemplative (and not only the gifted mystic), if his contemplation is an expression of a living discipleship, must be prepared to experience the dark night to some degree. It is a sign that he is on the path of Christ, i.e., it is a sign of consolation, even though it is bound to take the form of a withdrawal of consolation.
–Hans Urs von Balthasar (1905–1988)
To saints, their very slumber is a prayer.
— Saint John of the Cross (1542-1591)
Suffering for God is better than working miracles.
–Saint John of the Cross (1542-1591)
We know that the coming of the Lord is threefold: the third coming is between the other two and it is not visible in the way they are. At his first coming the Lord was seen on earth and lived among men, who saw him and hated him. At his last coming All flesh shall see the salvation of our God, and They shall look on him whom they have pierced. In the middle, the hidden coming, only the chosen see him, and they see him within themselves; and so their souls are saved.
–Saint Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153)
When God forgives a sinner who humbly confesses his sin, the devil loses his dominion over the heart he had taken.
–Saint Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153)
Grace is necessary to salvation, free will equally so – but grace in order to give salvation, free will in order to receive it.
–Saint Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153)
