St. Francis de Sales

St. Francis de Sales (1576-1622) was the Bishop of Geneva in the late 15th – early 16th centuries. His father was then senator of the province of Savoy in France, and Francis was destined to become a lawyer and eventually take his place. However, he instead received a call to the priesthood, which his father strongly opposed before capitulating to Francis’ persuasiveness,  offering his consent. He was elected Provost of the Diocese of Geneva – then a center for Calvinists – and worked towards converting many of them, before eventually becoming Bishop. Known for some of his writings, which were addressed to lay people, and his kind and gentle demeanor, St. Francis de Sales has been dubbed the “gentleman saint,” His legacy was the inspiration for the eventual Salesian order founded by St. Don Bosco centuries later. His feast day is celebrated on January 24th.

Questions for Reflection:

  • St. Francis de Sales had a comfortable life laid out for him, but chose to pursue a life of worship and service; even in lieu of disapproval from close family. Are you following a life you want or one that others want for you? How can God help you determine how best to live according to his plan? 
  • How has your faith changed the way you’ve looked at and or lived your life?