Imitation of Christ

About this book

Inspired by the work The Imitation of Christ by Thomas à Kempis, one of the most influential devotional books in Christianity, whose purpose is to instruct the soul in Christian perfection by proposing Jesus Christ Himself as its model, Imitation of Christ: Prayers with Saint Francis of Assisi presents in Saint Francis a concrete and radical realization of that ideal. While Kempis teaches the interior path, Francis embodies it with humility, evangelical poverty, love for God, and total self-giving. Taking up again the call to spiritual detachment and to contempt for the world understood as interior freedom, this book invites one to cultivate the life of the heart. The true imitation of Christ takes place in the conscience, in the intention, and in the will, and the figure of Saint Francis of Assisi illuminates that process with his example of simplicity, peace, penance, and trust in Divine Providence. This devotional gathers a collection of prayers aimed at reflecting on the imitation of Christ, seeking the intercession of Saint Francis. With biblical quotations, spaces to note intentions, and a novena for the intercession of Saint Francis, it is a spiritual resource that accompanies personal prayer and fosters interior growth for those who desire to follow Christ with greater authenticity, recollection, and a Franciscan spirit.