He taught them only the seven petitions of the Our Father in which all our spiritual and temporal needs are contained, and said nothing further about numerous other kinds of prayers and ceremonies. On the contrary, he urged them not to use many words in their prayers, since our Father in heaven surely knows what we need (Mt 6:7–8). Only one thing did he stress with special emphasis: that we should persevere in prayer.
–Saint John of the Cross (1542-1591)
You should strive in your prayer for a pure conscience, a will that is wholly with God, and a mind truly set upon Him.
–Saint John of the Cross (1542-1591)
All the virtues grow through the practice of any one of them, and all the vices grow through the practice of any one of them likewise.
–Saint John of the Cross (1542-1591)
Each of us is called to cultivate an inner garden in which the Divine Word may grow and flourish.
–Saint John of the Cross (1542-1591)
Where there is no love, put love — and you will find love.
–Saint John of the Cross (1542-1591)
The fly that clings to honey hinders its flight, and the soul that allows itself attachment to spiritual sweetness hinders its own liberty and contemplation.
–Saint John of the Cross (1542-1591)
