François de Sales
1567-1622 16th century Feast day: January 24
Gentleness as strength, and holiness offered to ordinary life.
Who was François de Sales?
A Savoyard gentleman who became bishop of Geneva in exile at Annecy, he spent years bringing the Chablais back to Catholicism, not by polemic but by gentleness and small tracts slipped under doors. Author of the Introduction to the Devout Life, he taught that holiness is for everyone (merchants, craftsmen, mothers) and not only for cloisters. His spiritual direction, patient and fine, shaped a whole century.
In their own words
Do not look forward in fear to the changes of life; rather hope that the same Father who has cared for you until now will care for you still.
Have patience with everyone, but first of all with yourself.
True devotion presupposes the love of God; it is nothing else than a true love of God.