 Born
in a castle to a well-placed family, his parents intended that he
become a lawyer, enter politics, and carry on the family line and
power. Studied at La Roche, Annecy, Clermont College in Paris, and
law at the University of Padua. Doctor of Law. He returned home, and
found a position as Senate advocate.
It was at this point that he received
a message telling him to "Leave all and follow Me." He took
this as a call to the priesthood, a move his family fiercely opposed.
However, he pursued a devoted prayer life, and his gentle ways won over
the family.
Priest. Provost of the diocese of
Geneva, Switzerland, a stronghold of Calvinists. Preacher, writer and
spiritual director in the district of Chablais. His simple, clear explanations
of Catholic doctrine, and his gentle way with everyone, brought many
back to the Roman Church.
Bishop of Geneva at age 35.
Travelled and evangelized throughout the Duchy of Savoy, working
with children whenever he could. Friend of Saint Vincent de Paul.
Turned down a wealthy French bishopric. Helped found the Order
of the Visitation with Saint Jeanne de Chantal. Prolific correspondent.
Doctor of the Church.
- - Born: 1567 at
Chateau of Thorens, Savoy
- Died: 28 December 1622 at Lyons;
buried at Annecy
- Canonized: 1665
“However, many hundreds, nay millions of
religions there might be in the world, I should only find good
the Catholic, Apostolic, Roman Church, in which I wish to die”
St. Francis de Sales, Patron
Saint of Lumen Verum Apologetics!
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