The Way of Salvation and of Perfection [The Ascetical Works vol. 2] St. Alphonsus de Liguori

Volume 2 of The Complete Ascetical Works of St. Alphonsus de Liguori is titled The Way of Salvation and of Perfection. Written by St. Alphonsus Liguori, an 18th-century Italian bishop, Doctor of the Church, and founder of the Redemptorists, this work is a collection of spiritual writings aimed at guiding souls toward holiness and eternal salvation. It builds on the themes of Volume 1 (Preparation for Death) by focusing on the practical means of achieving a virtuous life and union with God.

Key Content:

• Meditations on Salvation: The volume includes a series of meditations on essential Christian themes, such as the necessity of salvation, the pursuit of perfection, the love of God, and the avoidance of sin. These are designed for personal reflection or use in retreats.
• Treatises on Spiritual Growth: It contains short treatises and instructions on key aspects of the spiritual life, including prayer, mortification, humility, and conformity to God’s will.
• Practical Advice: St. Alphonsus provides guidance on overcoming spiritual obstacles, such as temptations, lukewarmness, and attachment to worldly desires, while emphasizing the importance of frequent recourse to prayer and the sacraments.
• Devotional Practices: The book includes prayers, aspirations, and resolutions to help readers cultivate a deeper relationship with God and live out the virtues discussed.

Structure:

The volume is organized into several sections:

1. Meditations: A collection of structured reflections on topics like the end of man, the mercy of God, the dangers of sin, and the pursuit of Christian perfection.
2. Discourses: Short essays or instructions on spiritual practices, such as the necessity of mental prayer, the virtues of humility and charity, and the importance of perseverance.
3. Spiritual Maxims: Concise teachings or aphorisms summarizing key principles for living a holy life.
4. Prayers and Devotions: Supplemental material to aid in daily spiritual exercises, including acts of faith, hope, and love.

Purpose and Tone:

The Way of Salvation and of Perfection is written in St. Alphonsus’s characteristic pastoral and direct style, making profound spiritual truths accessible to both laypeople and clergy. It balances warnings about the consequences of sin with encouragement to trust in God’s mercy and strive for holiness. The work is both practical and inspirational, offering clear steps for spiritual progress while fostering hope and devotion.