Jean-Baptiste Chautard (1858–1935)

This tiny volume contains some key insights into the character of Cistercian spirituality emphasizing both interior and exterior simplicity through reflection on the writings of St. Bernard of Clairvaux. If you have had the opportunity to walk through medieval Cistercian architecture, you will note the starkness of the buildings, the plainness of the windows and clothing and the almost utilitarian nature of the of the everyday environment. The monk (and any person ) trekking on the path of show more perfection. is admonished to methodically reduce one's dependence on things and emotions. The core of this relationship is "love". Simplicity takes on the character of abandonment that in the end become harmonious with everyday events and circumstances. Although the message may be medieval, its application has many implications.

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Essentially the book emphasizes repeatedly that public ministry or ministry in general will be ineffective without a robust interior life in which the whole of one's life is a communion with God and seeks and depends on His grace for carrying out the apostolic mission.

with a Biographical Note.

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