About
Born into a noble Savoyard family, Francis de Sales was ordained priest in 1593 and dedicated himself to the Catholic reconquest of the Chablais region. Appointed Bishop of Geneva in 1602, he resided in Annecy. His 'Introduction to the Devout Life' (1609) was a huge success, offering a spirituality accessible to laypeople. With Jane Frances de Chantal, he co-founded the Order of the Visitation in 1610. His 'Treatise on the Love of God' (1616) is a masterpiece of mystical theology. Canonized in 1665, declared a Doctor of the Church in 1877, he is the patron saint of journalists and writers.
Major works
- Introduction à la vie dévote (1609)spiritual guide
- Traité de l'amour de Dieu (1616)treatise on mystical theology
Key milestones
- 1602Appointed Bishop of Geneva, a see then under Calvinist control, he resided in Annecy.
- 1610Co-founded the Order of the Visitation of Holy Mary with Jane Frances de Chantal.
- 1665Canonized by Pope Alexander VII.
Themes
Devotion accessible to laypeopleLove of GodGentleness and humilitySpiritual directionCatholic Reformation
Sources: vaticanstate.va · vatican.va · britannica.com