Saint Francis de Sales

Feast Day January 24
Patron Saint of Writers and Those
in Need of Patience

Although St. Francis de Sales is the patron of writers, his life and words can also be an inspiration to those who spend hours, and often years, in prayer for the return of loved ones to the Faith. Francis had patience to wait until God’s will for him was made clear. Then, with perseverance and determination, he followed the path God had shown him.

Who is Saint Francis de Sales?

     He believed he should be a priest, and waited for years for God to tell him. Finally, God’s will became clear when Francis fell from his horse several times. With each fall, his sword and scabbard fell to the ground and formed a cross. At first, as a priest he was ineffective because people found him conceited and condescending.
     Francis patiently waited for God to lead him. Finally, he realized he was to try to convince the Calvinists to return to Catholicism. With his cousin by his side, he endured three years of rejection, cold winters, and sleeping in barns. When his cousin left, not one person had yet been converted.
     Still, Francis’ faith gave him patience. When no one opened their door to him, he slipped copies of his sermons underneath. When Francis turned to the children, his kindness finally won over the parents. Eventually, he led 40,000 people back to the Faith.
     Francis believed the worst sin was passing judgment on others. He also said to be just as gentle and forgiving with ourselves as we are with others.
 

Prayer to St Francis de Sales

St. Francis de Sales, by your example may we learn to love, not judge; to wait patiently for God instead of becoming anxious; & to persevere in prayer for our beloved prodigals. Amen.

The Writings of Francis de Sales

Besides his two well-known books, the Introduction to the Devout Life and A Treatise on the Love of God, he wrote many pamphlets and carried on a vast correspondence. For his writings, he has been named patron of the Catholic Press. His writings, filled with his characteristic gentle spirit, are addressed to lay people. He wants to make them understand that they too are called to be saints.
 ~ From Saint of the Day Lives,
  Lessons and Feast By Leonard
  Foley, O.F.M.