(1567-1622) Born to French nobility, Francis’ father had dreams of his son having a career as a magistrate. Intelligent, tall, handsome, and well built, he received an excellent education and a doctorate in law and theology. After making a pilgrimage to Loreto, Italy, Francis passed up noble marriage arrangements as well as his title and rights to succession in order to be ordained a priest. He served in the diocese of Geneva, Switzerland, a Calvinist stronghold, and gave clear, gentle explanations of doctrine to reconvert people to Catholicism. He became bishop of Geneva and helped Saint Jeanne de Chantal found the Order of the Visitation.
Francis de Sales was an excellent spiritual director, inspiring every Christian to pursue holiness no matter their state in life. This universal call to holiness is the message of the saints. You have a mission, given by God and unique to your life. How do you seek God’s will for your life and the power to carry that out (Step 11)?
“Every moment comes to us pregnant with a command from God, only to pass on and plunge into eternity, there to remain forever what we have made of it” (Saint Francis de Sales).
Reflection by Brad Farmer