28 Quotes by François-Xavier Nguyễn Văn Thuận

41 Don’t be discouraged by our failures. When you seek to do the will of God and meet with failure, that failure may be a success in God’s eyes because the outcome is as God desired. Look at the example of Jesus on the cross.

538 If you are always morose, pessimistic, and complaining, people will begin to doubt the eloquent advice you constantly offer. Seeing your example, would they be able to put their faith in the God you witness to?

754 You would regard as absurd a day-laborer who criticised the instructions of the engineer in a building project or a construction worker who criticised an architect’s plans for the building of a house, or a medical assistant who criticised a surgeon’s directions. Why then do you criticise your superiors who have more factors to consider than you can imagine?

747 You cannot know the extent of damage someone may cause when in a drunken state, whether it be in the form of an accident, physical violence, or arson. In the same way, when you are filled with the desire for revenge, your powers of perception become even more impaired.

114 If there is no resurrection, Christians are the most unfortunate people in the world (cf. 1 Cor 15:14, 17, 19).

928 During the most glorious events of our Lord’s public life - his transfiguration on Mount Tabor and his entry into Jerusalem - Mary remained hidden. But at times of gravest danger - the flight into Egypt, the way of the cross to Calvary, her sorrowful watch at the foot of the cross, and her vigil in the upper room with the apostles - Mary courageously chose to be present. She did not live for herself, but only for the Lord and his work of redemption.

410 When you look only at yourself and feel deprived, you can begin to think that you are the most miserable person in the world. When you look at others, you will see how, many people are worse off than yourself.

897 “Leave it till later” is sometimes a wise response, but it is often an excuse used by the procrastinator, or the disillusioned.

885 Looking at the past to lament it is useless. Looking at the past to be proud of results is dangerous. Looking at the past to learn from it is wise.