The Spiritual Life of Cardinal Merry del Val

by Jerome Dal Gal

The illustrious Cardinal Secretary of State of Pope St. Pius X was a saintly man in his interior life with God and his daily life among men. Although revered and admired by all, only after his death was his immense charity and profound humility revealed in its fullness. Cardinal Merry del Val was an aristocrat by birth, a man of culture and great learning, yet his joy and happiness was to be among the poor and lowly. His great desire was to work for souls. "Give me souls; take away all else" was the constant plea he voiced to God throughout his life, and these were the only words he wished to have on his tomb besides his name. This book reveals the hidden depths of spirituality which strengthened him and perfected him in his quest for perfection and union with God. The testimonies of those who knew him, his letters of direction to souls, his diaries and personal notes are woven into a profoundly stirring revelation of a soul completely dedicated to God.

180 pages, Hardcover

First published November 21, 2014

Reviews

[Noah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read The Spiritual Writings of Merry Del Val before reading this book, and having found the writings of this Servant of God edifying I was hoping for a more complete view of him as a person which this book satisfied in a page turning manner.

The book is organized not chronologically, but by separating his virtues and labors into different sections for examination. Cardinal Merry Del Val managed to live a life where he used the refinement and education that his aristocratic upbringing and education gave him for the service of the Church all the while shunning the world, living a life of simplicity, hiding his rank and being a most generous (and hidden) benefactor of the poor.

There can be a temptation to celebrate a lack of refinement in character and upbringing because of the pride, daintiness, and pretension exhibited in those who are born with privileges such as higher education or enabled in favorable circumstances because of birth. However, as many dangers as there are in such refinement it can be of great service to both God and neighbor and Merry del Val provides a great example for how it can be done.

Although, I think it was in excess when Blessed Cardinal Newman called vulgarity the greatest of vices, I don't think it is in excess to say that Cardinal Merry del Val exemplifies what a refined and Holy sophistication is, and he does it with the most profound humility.

[A Enwright · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good biopic. I was hoping for less narrative, and more of his own work.