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 Saint Francis de Sales Catholic Press Conference Issue Scott 53-54 (1936) January 24th is the feast day for Saint Francis de Sales. The two stamps shown above were issued as part of an eight-stamp set to commemorate the Catholic Press Conference in 1936. Saint Francis is the patron saint of the Catholic Press. Saint Francis de Sales was born on August 21, 1567, into a noble family in the Duchy of Savoy. At that time, the area of Savoy was included in what today are parts of France, Italy and Switzerland. Characterized as both intelligent and gentle, from a very early age he desired to serve God. A brilliant student, he was educated at the University of Paris and received a doctorate in law and theology but, against the will of his parents, he chose the priesthood for his life’s vocation. He was ordained in 1593 and developed a reputation as a distinguished preacher and catechist, especially in efforts to win back Calvinists who had abandoned the faith earlier in the 16th century. In 1602, he was appointed Bishop of Geneva and is credited with restoring the Church in that region. De Sales excelled in administrative work as well as preaching. He also inspired service to the poor. A prolific writer, Francis de Sales wrote many pamphlets which gave guidance to the laity and converted many Calvinists back to Roman Catholicism. His two most famous books are Introduction to the Devout Life and Treatise on the Love of God. Possessing stern ideals for life, his preaching was characterized by sincerity and gentleness, which was very effective. As Bishop he worked diligently in educating dioceses and monasteries of the reforms of the Council of Trent. He connected with people while providing individual spiritual direction and through his writings.  Francis de Sales and Jane Frances de Chantal Medal (1867) From Wikimedia Commons, in the Public Domain In 1604, he met Saint Jane Frances de Chantal (1572-1641), whose feast day is celebrated on August 12. Together, they founded a women’s religious order, the Sisters of the Visitation of Holy Mary. They also developed the concept of “Salesian Christian Humanism”, a joyful, optimistic approach to Christian living that emphasizes that holiness is achievable for everyone in everyday life through gentleness, humility, and love. At the center of Salesian Christian Humanism are the following thoughts from Saint Francis de Sales: Francis de Sales died in 1622. The patron saint of writers and journalists, he was declared a Saint in 1665 (by Pope Alexander VII) and a Doctor of the Church in 1877 (by Pope Pius IX). In addition to the stamps at the top of this article, Saint Francis de Sales was also honored in 2017 with a stamp commemorating the 450th anniversary of his birth.  Saint Francis de Sales 450th Anniversary of Birth Scott 1669 (2017) A final quote from Saint Francis de Sales: “Do not fear what may happen tomorrow. The same loving Father who cares for you today will care for you tomorrow and every day. Either He will shield you from suffering or He will give you unfailing strength to bear it. Be at peace then, and put aside all anxious thoughts and fearful imaginings. Trust in the Giver of all good gifts.” REFERENCES: |
