In "The Love of Jesus to Penitents" by Henry Edward Manning, readers are taken on a journey exploring the boundless love and mercy of Jesus towards those who seek forgiveness. Manning's writing is both insightful and heartfelt, as he delves into the transformative power of repentance and genuine contrition.
Throughout the book, Manning emphasizes the importance of true repentance and the healing grace that comes from embracing a life of humility and penance. He beautifully conveys the message that no sin is too great to be forgiven by Jesus, and that those who seek reconciliation will find solace and redemption in His love.
Manning's writing is deeply spiritual and speaks directly to the heart, offering hope and encouragement to those who may feel burdened by their sins. His words serve as a reminder of the unfailing love and compassion that Jesus has for all of His children, no matter their past mistakes or transgressions.
Overall, "The Love of Jesus to Penitents" is a powerful and inspiring read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the forgiving nature of Christ. Manning's insights are both comforting and challenging, urging readers to embrace the transformative power of repentance and experience the unconditional love of Jesus in their own lives.
Book Description:
Henry Edward Manning (1808-1892) was an Oxford-educated Anglican clergyman who converted to Roman Catholicism after the Privy Council ordered the Church of England in 1850 to reinstate an heretical vicar. Manning was ordained a priest in the Roman Catholic Church in 1851, appointed archbishop of Westminster in 1865, and made a cardinal in 1875 by Pope Pius IX.
In The Love of Jesus to Penitents, Manning enumerates the many benefits that the Sacrament of Penance affords the penitent: it reveals to the prodigal the tender compassion of Jesus Christ; it bestows the grace of spiritual regeneration upon the spiritually dead soul; it is the means of self-knowledge; it inclines the penitent to have perfect contrition and to make reparation to God and to those neighbors whom he has offended by his sins; and it bestows upon the spiritually reborn the gift of perseverance, enabling him to remain in a state of grace throughout his earthly life unto life everlasting. Manning tells us that Catholics in his day loved the Sacrament of Penance but did not avail themselves to its graces and benefits as often as they ought. In this respect, his day was much like our own. Catholics, therefore, should find this short book quite relevant, and both Catholics and non-Catholics should find it interesting and informative, as it outlines the practical usefulness and efficacy of this ancient sacrament.