God belongs to all free beings. He is the life of all, the salvation of all —faithful and unfaithful, just and unjust, pious and impious, passionate and dispassionate, monks and laymen, wise and simple, healthy and sick, young and old —just as the effusion of light, the sight of the sun, and the changes of the seasons are for all alike; ‘for there is no respect of persons with God.’
–Saint John Climacus (c. 525-606)
Above all the grace and the gifts that Christ gives to his beloved is that of overcoming self.
–Saint Francis of Assisi (1181 – 1226)
The grace of contemplation is granted only in response to a longing insistent desire.
–Saint Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153)
In the life of the body a man is sometimes sick, and unless he takes medicine, he will die. Even so in the spiritual life a man is sick on account of sin. For that reason he needs medicine so that he may be restored to health; and this grace is bestowed in the Sacrament of Penance.
–Saint Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274)
The window of the soul cleansed perfectly and made completely transparent by the divine light.
–Saint John of the Cross (1542-1591)
At times our Lord makes you feel the burden of the Cross. This burden seems intolerable to you. But as for you, carry it because Jesus extends His hand and gives you strength.
–Saint Pio (1887-1968)
