We must pray without tiring, for the salvation of mankind does not depend on material success; nor on sciences that cloud the intellect. Neither does it depend on arms and human industries, but on Jesus alone.
–Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini (1850-1917)
The psalms have also a wonderful power to awaken in our hearts the desire for every virtue. Athanasius says: ‘Though all Scripture, both old and new, is divinely inspired and has its use in teaching, as we read in Scripture itself, yet the Book of Psalms, like a garden enclosing the fruits of all the other books, produces its fruits in song, and in the process of singing brings forth its own special fruits to take their place beside them.’ In the same place Athanasius rightly adds: ‘The psalms seem to me to be like a mirror, in which the person using them can see himself, and the stirrings of his own heart; he can recite them against the background of his own emotions.’
–Saint Pius X (1835-1914)
Speak simply and candidly to our Lord as with another self, as with your sister. Be a child who is full of love and surrendered to her good maker. Let it be an interior conversation with God more than a work of the mind… because it will express all the thoughts and needs of your heart.
–Saint Peter Julian Eymard (1811-1868)
In prayer one must hold fast and never let go, because the one who gives up loses all. If it seems that no one is listening to you, then cry out even louder. If you are driven out of one door, go back in by the other.
–Saint Jane Frances de Chantal (1572-1641)
Humble patience, tirelessness and persistence in prayer conquer the unconquerable God and incline Him to mercy.
–Lawrence Scupoli (1529-1610)
