Chains Quote by Vincent de Paul
“Even convicts, with whom I have spent some time, are not won over in any other way. Whenever I happened to speak sharply to them, I spoiled everything; on the contrary, when I praised them for their resignation and sympathized with them in their sufferings; when I told them they were fortunate to have their purgatory in this world, when I kissed their chains, showed compassion for their distress, and expressed sorrow for their misfortune, it was then that they listened to me, gave glory to God, and opened themselves to salvation.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: The Works of Saint Vincent de Paul, 1660s
Compassionate empathy and respectful praise open hearts more than harsh criticism, leading to spiritual receptivity.
In simple terms: Kindness wins where harshness fails.
Key Takeaway
Speak gently and honor their suffering.
Themes
compassion
humility
spiritual guidance
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
inspirational
spiritual
When to use this quote
- prison ministry
- counseling
- mentoring
- faith outreach
Key Concepts
empathy
respect
salvation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you show genuine compassion without seeming patronizing?
- What small acts of kindness can break barriers?
A Different Perspective
Harsh rebuke can alienate; some may resist any overtures.
![“. . . . [P]ersons who love very much, easily take offense at trifles. No doubt your excessive affection for me makes you a little diffident about mine. But there is no harm done; I hope you will soon be over this slight jealousy and be convinced that nothing can change the genuine affection Our…” quote by Vincent de Paul](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/570/vincent-de-paul-1676_affection_p-ersons-who-love-very-much-easily-take_52639.jpg)
![“[I]f the gentleness of your spirit needs a dash of vinegar, borrow a little from Our Lord's spirit. O Mademoiselle, how well He knew how to find a bittersweet remark when it is needed!” quote by Vincent de Paul](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/546/vincent-de-paul-1676_bittersweet_i-f-the-gentleness-of-your-spirit-needs_81360.jpg)
