Those who are joined in marriage should be advised that, as they mutually consider what is good for their spouse, they should be careful that when they please their spouse, they do not displease their maker. In other words, they should conduct their affairs in this world without relinquishing their desire for God … They should remain aware that their current situation is transitory and what they desire is permanent.
–Saint Gregory the Great (c. 540-604)
And to remain at a standstill is impossible; he that gains not, loses in this traffic; he that ascends not, descends upon this ladder; he that vanquishes not in this battle, is vanquished.
–Saint Francis de Sales (1567-1622)
While those who give scandal are guilty of the spiritual equivalent of murder, those who take scandal — who allow scandals to destroy faith —are guilty of spiritual suicide.
–Saint Francis de Sales (1567-1622)
The spiritual virtue of a sacrament is like light; although it passes among the impure, it is not polluted.
–Saint Augustine (354-430)
Beware of despairing about yourself: you are commanded to put your trust in God, and not in yourself.
–Saint Augustine (354-430)
For grace is given not because we have done good works, but in order that we may be able to do them.
–Saint Augustine (354-430)
