We, the Missionaries of St. Francis de Sales (M.S.F.S.) better known as Fransalians, commemorate the 400th death anniversary of our heavenly Patron St. Francis de Sales on December 28th 2022. In the spiritual life, saints show us the way to perfection. They are our real ideals, whom we emulate and have recourse to for our spiritual growth. We do bear their names, which reminds us of that particular saint and his or her teachings and principles of life to follow, in our lives. It was St. Francis de Sales’ life that influenced our Founder and Servant of God Fr. Peter Marie Mermier, to found the MSFS Congregation under his patronage. Since 1838, for the last 184 years, the Congregation is known worldwide and is contributing a lot towards the growth of the Universal Church. Hence it is very appropriate for us to reflect on the brief biography of our patron St. Francis de Sales from his birth till the last breath and days of his earthly life.
Francis de Sales – A Biography
Francis de Sales was born in Thorens, Savoy, France on 21st August 1567. He was a student of law and theology at the University in Padua, Italy. It was here that he obtained his Doctorate in Civil and Canon law in 1591. He returned to Savoy in February 1592. He was appointed Provost in 1593 and took charge of the diocese of Geneva, Annecy. He was ordained deacon on 18th September 1593 and ordained a priest on 18th December 1593. On 14th September 1594, he volunteered for the difficult and dangerous Mission of Chablais. He worked for almost six years with his innovative ways of winning the hearts of the Calvinists and gradually conversions took place and they all returned to the Catholic fold. On 8th December 1602 he was consecrated as the Bishop of Geneva.
Fr. Johnson Gonsalves MSFS
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