Like the Canons of Windesheim, the Brethren of the Common Life was a product of the devotio moderna (modern devotion) inspired by G. Groote (1340–84). This community traces its origin to clergy and laity who, in Deventer in 1380/81, without official vows or an approved rule, came together in a communal spiritual life. Their goal was to promote their own edification and, by their example and teaching, to further the salvation of others. They lived mainly by their own work, including the production of books. Organized by Florentius Radewijns (1350–1400), their life …