The Imitation of Christ

Only the Bible has been more influential as a source of Christian devotional reading than "The Imitation of Christ." This classic meditation on spiritual life has inspired readers from Thomas More and St. Ignatius Loyola to Thomas Merton, John Wesley, and Pope John Paul I. Written by the Augustinian monk Thomas à Kempis, "The Imitation of Christ" contains clear instructions for renouncing worldly vanities and locating eternal truths. No book has more explicitly and movingly described the Christian ideal: "My son, to the degree that you can leave yourself behind, to that degree will you be able to enter into Me." A 15th century priest and writer, Thomas à Kempis wrote many devotional works during his career, and culminated with this masterpiece celebrating man's dependence on God's boundless love. "The Imitation of Christ" has brought understanding and comfort to millions for centuries. Written in a candid and conversational style, it covers topics ranging from liberation from worldly inclinations, preparation and consolations of prayer, and the place of communion in a devout life.