The sixteenth century was a golden age for the Church in Spain, producing great thinkers such as Victoria and Suarez, and mystics such as St. Teresa of Avila and St. John of the Cross. Hidden among these towering figures is the venerable Father Louis de Ponte, SJ. Born at Valladolid in 1554, de Ponte lived a remarkably pure and innocent life, advancing steadily in both learning and holiness. Though he served as an administrator within the Jesuit order, ill health eventually led him to withdraw from administrative duties and dedicate himself entirely to spiritual writing.
In this book, you will discover the hidden life of this largely unknown master of the interior life. You will learn of his profound spiritual doctrine, his unwavering love for Our Lord in the Holy Eucharist, and the sublime heights of mystical contemplation he attained. De Ponte’s writings synthesize the wisdom of the great Catholic spiritual authors who preceded him, forming a treasury of guidance for those seeking union with God.
“De Ponte made use of all the great authors before him: in some sense it might be said that what St. Thomas Aquinas was to dogmatic theology, that De Ponte was to mystical teaching, and what the Summa Theologica did for Scholasticism, that the Spiritual Guide has done for mysticism.”
– Bishop Alban Goodier
About the Author
Louis de Ponte, SJ (1554–1624) was a Spanish Jesuit priest, administrator, and mystical theologian. After years of service within the Society of Jesus, he devoted himself to writing spiritual works that became foundational texts in the Catholic mystical tradition. His writings influenced generations of spiritual directors, contemplatives, and reformers across Europe, securing his reputation as one of the great but often overlooked masters of Catholic spirituality.
