From the Pen of Saint Vincent de Paul

 

Saint Vincent de Paul: Evangelist of the Poor, won souls for Christ, fought heretics and promoted the true Catholic faith.

“He who allows himself to be ruled or guided by the lower and animal part of his nature, deserves to be called a beast rather than a man.

“Humility is nothing but truth, and pride is nothing but lying.

“It is absolutely necessary, both for our advancement and the salvation of others, to follow always and in all things the beautiful light of faith.

“Perfection consists in renouncing ourselves, in carrying our cross, and in following Jesus Christ. Now, he who renounces himself most perfectly carries his cross the best and follows nearest to Jesus Christ is he who never does his own will, but always that of God.

“Every time that some unexpected event befalls us, be it affliction, or be it spiritual or corporal consolation, we should endeavor to receive it with equanimity of spirit, since all comes from the hand of God.

“He who submits himself to God in all things is certain that whatever men say or do against him will always turn to his advantage.

“After knowing the will of God in regard to a work which we undertake, we should continue courageously, however difficult it may be. We should follow it to the end with as much constancy as the obstacles we encounter are great.

“We should never abandon, on account of the difficulties we encounter, an enterprise undertaken with due reflection.

“We should be cordial and affable with the poor, and with persons in humble circumstances. We should not treat them in a supercilious manner. Haughtiness makes them revolt. On the contrary, when we are affable with them, they become more docile and derive more benefit from the advice they receive.

“That which we suffer in the accomplishment of a good work, merits for us the necessary graces to insure its success.

“We ought to have a special devotion to those saints who excelled in humility, particularly to the Blessed Virgin Mary, who declares that the Lord regarded her on account of her humility.