The gentle direction of Mother de Chantal

Letters of Spiritual Direction

The Letters of Jane de Chantal

Discussion Group 2:
David Purdy, Taisali Leuluai, Tresphord Chisanga, Duoc Le

What struck you?

Jane de Chantal had a variety of diverse directees, and the advice that she gives seems general, but yet particular as needed.

The directees shared mainly “faults” and not sins

• Encouraging words
• Common sense approach, sprinkled with charity
• Her letters to Madame du Tertre are many: Jane had to write many letters to help Madame Tertre (p219)

Letter to the Bishop of Bourges (her brother, André Fremiot)

• Addressed him respectfully as “my lord”
• In the body of the letter spoke to him as brother, she starts giving gentle advice to him, “when you have committed some faults go to him humbly and say I’m sorry.” (p203)

The language and tone in the letters of Jane de Chantal

• Language is very assuring and affirming
• Tone is neutral, not emotional

She had a reputation of being a good advisor. It seems that her directees are comfortable enough with her that they share even the smallest aspects of their lives; they are open with her. Is this not the highest point of trust between a devotee and a director?

Jane attributes her spiritual life to St. Francis in her first letter

One difficulty in this collection of letters is the absence of letters from the directée. There are only letters from Jane published, which makes it difficult to put into context at times.

What is new for you?

• In a comparative way to other spiritual guides, her approach is gentle
• Compared to Francis de Sales, Jane de Chantal did not use as many examples or imagery to make a point. Her language is very simple.
  

What is confirming for you?

• Jane is a good example of a “good neighbor”, loves God!
• Live Jesus!

Submitted by Duoc Van Le
Photo by Joe Boenzi: Visitation (St Paul, Minnesota): hands help and welcome