The Existence of God

This engaging biography follows the life of a remarkable 17th‑century French bishop, whose career weaves together courtly influence, scholarly pursuits, and deep spiritual commitment. Born at the Château de Fénelon, educated at Cahors and the Collège du Plessis, he entered the priesthood at twenty‑four and quickly became a noted preacher at Saint‑Sulpice.

He soon rose to prominence, publishing works on education and theology, defending Catholic doctrine during the turbulent post‑Edict of Nantes years, and eventually securing the archbishopric of Cambrai. His close yet strained relationship with the eminent bishop Bossuet, and his sympathetic advocacy for the mystic Madame Guyon, illustrate the tensions between innovation and orthodoxy within the French Church.

Appointed tutor to the future Duke of Burgundy, he used fables and dialogues to weave moral lessons into the fabric of royal upbringing, showing how charity shaped his public and private life.