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The Practice of the Presence of God

Brother Lawrence

Brother Lawrence (born Nicholas Herman) (c. 1605-1691) was a monk of the Carmelite order who became influential throughout France due to his exemplary life and simple devotion to God. Born in the Herimenil, Lorraine province, he was provided a rudimentary education at home, and under guidance of local priest named Lawrence. He served as a soldier and footman for a number of years before embarking upon the monastic life as a hermit. He entered the Carmelite community in Paris in 1649, where he would remain the rest of his life, taking the cherished name "Lawrence". His outward life was unremarkable (routine service in the community kitchen), yet it clearly reflected a profound interior life of contemplation and devotion. Brother Lawrence, whose writings and teachings have exerted widespread influence and appeal to the present day, manifests in his life and spirituality much of what is best, and most common, in the Christian monastic tradition.

A testimony of late monastic spirituality – a glimpse into a life marked by prayer, meditation, and service.

This is a translation of Moeurs et Entretiens du Frère Laurent, published in 1694 (and later titled "The Practice of the Presence of God"). It is one of two collections of Lawrence's writings (the other being Maximes Spirituelles [Spiritual Maxims], 1692) produced by Abbé Joseph de Beaufort, a representative of the local archbishop. It consists of fifteen letters, as well as four conversations which Beaufort had with Lawrence, having first met the monk in 1666. The conversations amount to a short anecdotal biography, demonstrating aspects of Lawrence's life and service. The letters, written to give advice, guidance, and exhortation to various correspondents, provide a brief glimpse into his heart – the emphasis on faith and prayer, a single-minded focus on God in meditation and contemplation, and a life offered in humble service.

Inspirational & Devotional

Faith, Prayer & Service