(From the original introduction to “Abridged Sermons for All the Sundays of the Year”)
The present work is entitled, Abridged Sermons for All the Sundays of the Year. They are called Abridged Sermons, because, although each contains abundant matter for a sermon, the sentiments are briefly expressed—not, however, so briefly as to render the sense obscure. Hence the work may also serve for spiritual reading.
The material has been purposely kept concise, that the preacher may extend the subject treated in the way which may appear best to him. A preacher will scarce ever deliver, with zeal and warmth, sentiments which he has not made in some manner his own. Hence the matter of each sermon has been condensed, that the preacher may expand on it according to his pleasure, and thus render it his own.
In each sermon there are many passages from the Scriptures and Holy Fathers, and a variety of reflections—perhaps more abundant than is requisite for a single discourse—so that the reader may select and use what pleases him most. The style is easy and simple, and therefore calculated to render the preaching of the Divine Word conducive to the salvation of souls.