The Interior of Jesus and Mary Vol. 1

In the turbulent aftermath of the French Revolution, Father John Nicholas Grou, S.J. (1731-1803) composed one of the most profound spiritual treatises on the interior life of Jesus and Mary. Exiled from France and living in poverty at Lulworth Castle in England, this Jesuit master of the spiritual life created a work that would be translated into every European language and become a cornerstone of Catholic devotional literature. This fifth edition, carefully edited by Rev. S. H. Frisbee, S.J., presents Father Grou's meditation on the hidden life of Christ— from the Incarnation through the public ministry—alongside the interior dispositions of the Blessed Mother, offering readers a comprehensive guide to understanding not merely the external events of the Gospel, but the profound spiritual realities that animated every moment of the Holy Family's existence. The religious benefit of this work lies in its unique approach to contemplative prayer and imitation of Christ. Father Grou teaches that true devotion requires penetrating beyond the external actions of Jesus and Mary to understand their interior dispositions—their thoughts, affections, and hidden virtues. Written originally for a lady seeking to know Jesus and Mary better, this book became a treasured resource for religious communities and souls desiring deeper union with God. Through meticulous meditation on each Gospel event, from the Nativity to the Resurrection, readers learn to "penetrate the hidden secrets of his mind and heart," transforming their spiritual exercises from mere recitation into profound communion with the divine models of all perfection. 400 pages. Author: Father John Nicholas Grou, S.J. Year: 1847