St. Bonaventure (1221–1274)

Taken from The Journey of the Mind to God

Do not assume that mere
Reading will suffice without fervor,
Speculation without devotion,
Investigation without admiration,
Observation without exaltation,
Industry without piety,
Knowledge without love,
Understanding without humility,
Study without divine grace.

Born in Italy, Saint Bonaventure was one of the greatest Christian mystics. As a child he was taken to St. Francis of Assisi for prayers to cure him of a dangerous illness. He studied and then lectured at the University of Paris for seven years (1248–1255). In 1273 he was appointed a cardinal in the Catholic church.