What is devotio moderna?

Devotio Moderna, or "modern devotion," was a spiritual movement that began in the late 14th century in the Low Countries (modern-day Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg). It was a response to the corruption and materialism of the Catholic Church at the time.

The movement emphasized personal devotion and piety, focusing on inner spiritual life rather than outward religious practices. Followers of Devotio Moderna sought to live a simple and humble life, practicing acts of charity, meditation, and prayer.

One of the most famous works associated with Devotio Moderna is "The Imitation of Christ" by Thomas à Kempis, which was written in the early 15th century. This book emphasizes the importance of following in the footsteps of Christ and living a life of humility and devotion.

The movement had a significant impact on religious life in Europe, influencing the development of other spiritual movements such as the Protestant Reformation and the Society of Jesus (Jesuits).

Devotio Moderna was not a structured organization, but rather a loose movement of like-minded individuals seeking to deepen their spiritual lives. It continued to influence European spirituality well into the 16th and 17th centuries.