The Science of the Spiritul Life

Ascetical Theology is a supernatural science that leads the soul to the highest perfection of which it is capable in this life. I proposed three objects to myself. I was anxious to provide for those candidates for perfection who are without a director and yet wish to advance in perfection a small volume, not very expensive, which should contain such a synopsis of ascetical theology that it might take the place of a whole library if read frequently and with sufficient application of understanding and will. This is because I write for both faculties—for the understanding that a correct idea of solid ascetical theology may be formed from the order and connection of the truths proposed and all false ideas banished, which not infrequently may be traced to a confused or disorderly course of instruction. This is because the will may be practically guided by the shortest way to the use of that art and science, without which other arts and sciences only puff up and injure the soul.