Pierre de Bérulle's Apostolate of the Incarnate Word

Abstract

Pierre de Bérulle is the originator of the mystical and ascetical movement known as the French School of Spirituality. Although he had strong institutional concerns, the enduring value of his work lies in its radical Christocentricism. While his theology is not original, he uses it to develop the themes of contemplation and intimacy with Christ in writings of rare brilliance. His theology is eclectic, deriving from Augustinian, Thomist and Scotist sources. Some of his key concepts, however, do seem to be original: state, servitude/adherence and non-being. His works are little known in the English-speaking world.