A book by Father Dion, of that very title, is an excellent introduction to this subject. He aims "to
instruct the reader in the precise nature of certain basic spiritual means of sanctification. Unless one
knows the nature of these means accurately, he cannot use them intelligently, and, moreover, he runs
the risk of using them badly, and consequently being hindered by what is intended to help."
I think this is important for us. Judging from writings prior to the 1960s, and from the condition of the Church since then, there seems to be some difficulty in getting Catholics to sanctify themselves using the means provided by God through His Church. I think it is fairly obvious that the problem is worse after than before the 1960s, but nonetheless the divines of our holy religion have long exhorted the faithful to take them seriously. And we are in fact pledged to do exactly this, through our reception of the sacraments: to make true and diligent use of the means of holy mother Church, to overcomeal l our faults and to practice virtue. We are interested in union with God, in attaining Heaven, and in being instruments for the salvation of others as well as of ourselves.
What happens when we pray the Rosary? Or attend Mass? Or go to Confession? How can we develop ourselves so that these typical aspects of our Faith will have a greater effect on our souls? How can we be more open to the grace of God, which He showers upon us constantly?
Basic Spiritual Means
