Pope Leo XIV has written an introduction to a new edition of “The Practice of the Presence of God,” a 17th-century book by Carmelite Brother Lawrence, released by the Vatican Publishing House (LEV). The book, the Pope noted, significantly shaped his own spiritual life.
The Spiritual Life and Brother Lawrence
The book centers on the experience and practice of the presence of God, as understood and taught by Brother Lawrence of the Resurrection. Pope Leo XIV described it as one of the texts, alongside the writings of Saint Augustine, that most influenced his spiritual journey.
The path outlined by Brother Lawrence is both simple and demanding, the Pope wrote. It requires consistently remembering God through acts of praise, prayer, and adoration in all actions and thoughts, with God as the ultimate focus. However, it also necessitates purification, discipline, and a conversion of one’s innermost self.
Pope Leo XIV connected this practice to Saint Paul’s call to have the same sentiments as Christ Jesus, emphasizing the need to align not only actions but also feelings with God. He stated that finding God’s presence involves a deep interiority, a “loving and burning presence” that is both distinct from and familiar to the heart.
The experience of union with God, as described by Brother Lawrence, mirrors the experiences of mystics like Teresa of Ávila, who also spoke of a familiar relationship with the Lord. However, the Pope emphasized that this path is accessible to all due to its simplicity and integration into everyday life.
Brother Lawrence, like many mystics, approached his faith with humility and humor, recognizing the insignificance of earthly matters in comparison to God’s infinite love. The Pope noted Lawrence’s ironic observation that God “deceived” him by filling his monastic life with joy, contrary to his initial expectations of sacrifice.
As one becomes more familiar with God’s presence, joy grows, spiritual riches flourish, and daily tasks become easier, according to the Pope. He believes the writings of Brother Lawrence can inspire people in the third millennium, demonstrating that no circumstance can separate individuals from God.
Pope Leo XIV concluded that all Christian ethics can be summarized by continually remembering God’s presence, which transcends moralism and reveals the promise of abundance through trust in God. He described this as a taste of Paradise.
Vatican City, 11 December 2025
Discover more from Archyworldys
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
