Pope Leo XIV: Brother Lawrence Inspires Us to Embrace the Joy of Daily Life in God’s Presence
Pope Leo XIV has penned an introduction to a new edition of "The Practice of the Presence of God," a profound work by Carmelite Brother Lawrence, recently published by the Vatican Publishing House (LEV). This insightful book, originally written by a humble French monk in the 17th century, has significantly influenced the spiritual journey of Fr. Robert Prevost, who is now Pope Leo.
By Pope Leo XIV
This concise yet impactful book focuses on the experience—indeed, the deliberate practice—of being aware of God’s presence, as taught and lived by the Carmelite friar Lawrence of the Resurrection during the seventeenth century.
As I have noted before, alongside the writings of Saint Augustine and other vital texts, this particular work has profoundly shaped my spiritual development and provided guidance on the path to knowing and loving the Lord.
The journey that Brother Lawrence invites us to embark on is both straightforward and challenging. It is simple because it only requires us to continually keep God at the forefront of our minds, engaging in small, consistent acts of praise, prayer, supplication, and adoration throughout every thought and action, with Him as our only horizon, source, and ultimate goal. Yet, it is also demanding, as it necessitates a process of purification, a disciplined ascetic lifestyle, and a deep renunciation and transformation of our innermost selves—particularly our thoughts and mindset, even more than our outward behaviors.
As Saint Paul advised the Philippians, we are called to "Have in you the same sentiments as Christ Jesus" (Phil 2:5). Therefore, aligning ourselves with God involves not just adjusting our actions and attitudes but also transforming our deepest feelings—the very essence of how we perceive and engage with the world. In this inner journey, we discover His presence, the tender and fervent love of God, which feels both profoundly distinct and intimately familiar to our hearts. As Saint Augustine eloquently states, "the new man will sing the new song" (Sermons 34,1).
The intimate relationship with God that Brother Lawrence describes—a dynamic filled with encounters, conversations, unexpected revelations, trust, and total surrender—echoes the experiences of renowned mystics, particularly Teresa of Ávila. She famously referred to this divine companionship, humorously calling it a connection with a “God of the pots and pans.” However, Lawrence’s teachings highlight a path that is accessible to everyone, precisely because it is grounded in the simplicity of everyday life.
Like many great mystics, Brother Lawrence approaches his subject with humility and a touch of humor, recognizing that everything earthly—even the grandest and most dramatic events—pales in comparison to the infinite love of God. He candidly shares how God “deceived” him; entering the monastery with a perhaps overly ambitious desire for self-sacrifice and penance, he instead discovered a life overflowing with joy.
Through the journey that Brother Lawrence offers us, as we gradually become more familiar with God’s presence and allow it to fill our inner spaces, we experience a growing joy in His company. This leads to an outpouring of grace and spiritual blessings, making even the most mundane tasks feel light and effortless.
The writings and experiences of this 17th-century Carmelite lay brother, who navigated the tumultuous events of his era—no less chaotic than our own—serve as a beacon of inspiration and support for us, individuals living in the third millennium. They remind us that no circumstance can truly separate us from God; every action, every engagement in our lives, and even our mistakes gain immeasurable value when lived in His presence, continuously offered back to Him.
In essence, all Christian ethics can be encapsulated in the continual reminder of God’s presence: He is here with us. This remembrance transcends mere cognitive recall, as it deeply engages our emotions and affections. It goes beyond moralistic interpretations and the reduction of the Gospel to mere rules, illustrating that, as Jesus promised, entrusting ourselves to God the Father grants us a glimpse of the abundant life here on earth. Relying on God’s presence allows us to savor a foretaste of Paradise.
Vatican City, December 11, 2025
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