An ornate woodcut headpiece depicting two cherubs seated on scrolling foliage, flanking a central ornamental pedestal or obelisk. The scene is decorated with floral garlands and sprays.

TO THE

UNIVERSAL CHURCH OF GOD,

GLORIOUSLY TRIUMPHANT original: "Gloriose Triumphanti" — This refers to the "Church Triumphant," the souls of the redeemed who are already in heaven with God.,

SORROWFULLY PURGING original: "Dolorose Purganti" — Commonly known as the "Church Suffering," these are the souls in Purgatory undergoing purification before entering heaven.,

COURAGEOUSLY MILITANT original: "Animose Militanti" — The "Church Militant" refers to the community of Christian believers on earth who are still "fighting" the spiritual battle against sin..

A decorative woodcut drop-cap 'C' featuring a cherub leaning against the letter and holding a palm branch or floral sprig.

Since in the dedication of books the primary concern should be that the book receives splendor from its Patron, and the Patron in turn borrows satisfaction from the book; by laying this little work of Faith original: "Fidei opusculum" at your sacred feet, O holy universal Church of GOD, I believe that I have achieved both: splendor for the little book in You, and for You in the book...