Top 10 Inspirational Saint Francis de Sales Quotes
Top 10 Inspirational Saint Francis de Sales Quotes
Here's some of our favorite Saint Francis de Sales quotes;
- Do not wish to be anything but what you are, and try to be that perfectly.
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During the night we must wait for the light.
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The measure of love is to love without measure.
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Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself. Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections, but instantly set about remedying them—every day begin the task anew.
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Be patient with everyone, but above all with yourself...do not be disheartened by your imperfections, but always rise up with fresh courage.
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Make friends with the angels, who though invisible are always with you. Often invoke them, constantly praise them, and make good use of their help and assistance in all your temporal and spiritual affairs.
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It is wonderful how attractive a gentle, pleasant manner is, and how much it wins hearts.
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Do not think that you will be able to succeed in your affairs by your own efforts, but only by the assistance of God; and on setting out, consign yourself to His care, believing that He will do that which will be best for you.
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Half an hour's meditation each day is essential, except when you are busy. Then a full hour is needed.
- Be who you are and be that well.
St Francis de Sales Novena
St Francis de Sales is a wonderful saint to have a devotion to. Here's a novena to St Francis de Sale that we recommend.
O Glorious St. Francis, model of the interior life, and full of zeal for the salvation of souls! Obtain for me the grace to employ all my faculties, not for my own sanctification alone, but for that of my neighbor also; that continually spreading abroad the sweet odor of Jesus Christ by my words and works, I may attain with thee the blessedness promised to the merciful: "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy;" and that I may one day have a share in the glory which thou dost enjoy in paradise with the angels and saints, where those who edify and instruct to justice shall shine as stars for all eternity (Dan. xii. 3)
St Francis de Sales Catholic Mug
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Who is Saint Francis de Sales?
Saint Francis de Sales, a beloved figure in the history of the Church, was a bishop, theologian, and spiritual writer whose life and work have left an indelible mark on the spiritual life of the faithful. Born in the Duchy of Savoy in what is now Switzerland on August 21, 1567, Francis de Sales grew up in a pious family and was destined to become one of the great spiritual masters of the Catholic Church. His holiness and wisdom continue to inspire the Church to this day, making him one of the most beloved saints in Catholic tradition.
Early Life and Education
Francis was born into a noble family, the eldest of six children. His father, François de Sales, was a gentleman of the court, and his mother, Frances de Sionnaz, was a woman of deep faith. Both parents instilled in him a love for God and a sense of the importance of a good education. At an early age, Francis demonstrated a deep intellectual curiosity and a desire to pursue the spiritual life.
At the age of 8, he was sent to the Jesuit college in Annecy, where he began his formal education. Francis’s youthful zeal for studies, along with a strong inclination toward the spiritual life, marked him as someone destined for greatness. However, his path to the priesthood was not without challenges. Initially, Francis struggled with a deep spiritual crisis concerning his salvation, which led him to experience a profound conversion in his late adolescence. This personal crisis was pivotal in shaping his spiritual identity, as it helped him develop an unwavering trust in God’s grace.
After completing his studies, Francis traveled to Paris to study law at the University of Padua. Though he was trained in law, his heart was drawn to the priesthood, and he eventually decided to pursue a religious vocation. He was ordained a priest in 1593, despite the initial opposition of his family who had hoped he would take up a career in law. His ordination was the beginning of a life dedicated to the service of God and the Church.
Another of our favorite St Francis de Sales quotes is as follows;
"Never be in a hurry; do everything quietly and in a calm spirit. Do not lose your inner peace for anything whatsoever, even if your whole world seems upset. What is anything in life compared to peace of soul?"
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Bishop of Geneva and the Spirituality of Saint Francis de Sales
In 1602, after the death of his father, Francis was appointed as the Bishop of Geneva, a position that would define his legacy. At the time, Geneva was a stronghold of Protestantism, and the Catholic Church had lost significant influence in the region. Yet, Francis de Sales, with his gentle spirit, pastoral zeal, and deep theological insights, would become the instrument of the Church’s revival in this challenging region.
Saint Francis’s pastoral approach was characterized by his deep understanding of human nature and his profound charity. Unlike the harsh tactics of some of his contemporaries, he employed gentleness and patience to win souls for Christ. His emphasis on personal holiness and the pursuit of sanctity through everyday life resonated with the people, and many Protestants were converted by his example and teaching. He was not only a tireless preacher but also a caring shepherd who visited his flock regularly and offered guidance and support to all, especially those in need.
Francis de Sales is perhaps best known for his spirituality, which emphasized the importance of living the Catholic faith in the midst of everyday life. He famously stated, “Do not wish to be anything but what you are, and try to be that perfectly.” His teachings were practical and grounded in the belief that holiness could be attained by all people, regardless of their state in life. This “universal call to holiness” was a cornerstone of his spirituality, which remains a profound part of Catholic teaching.
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"Introduction to the Devout Life"
One of Saint Francis de Sales's most influential works is his spiritual treatise, Introduction to the Devout Life (Introduction à la vie dévote), first published in 1609. The book is a spiritual manual that has influenced countless souls, providing guidance on how to live a devout life in the world. The central message of the book is that holiness is not restricted to monks or priests but is attainable by laypeople as well.
In Introduction to the Devout Life, Francis de Sales dispenses practical advice on prayer, humility, and the pursuit of virtue. His approach is one of balance—he advocates for fervent devotion without excessive scrupulosity, urging readers to maintain peace of mind while striving for perfection in their relationship with God. One of his key teachings in the book is the importance of being patient with oneself in the spiritual journey, acknowledging that holiness is a gradual process and that God’s grace works in stages.
The book also highlights the role of love and charity in the Christian life. Francis teaches that true devotion is not simply about piety but about loving God and others. He emphasizes that the devout life is not about withdrawing from the world, but rather about sanctifying one's ordinary duties and relationships. His gentle and pastoral tone makes Introduction to the Devout Life an enduring spiritual classic, still widely read by Catholics today.
St Francis de Sales quote about having patience
"Have patience with all things but first with yourself. Never confuse your mistakes with your value as a human being. You are a perfectly valuable, creative, worthwhile person simply because you exist. And no amount of triumphs or tribulations can ever change that."
The Missionary Zeal of Saint Francis de Sales
Despite his relatively quiet and contemplative nature, Saint Francis de Sales was a tireless missionary. He worked to re-catholicize the region of Savoy, which had been severely affected by the Protestant Reformation. He established the Order of the Visitation of Holy Mary with Saint Jane Frances de Chantal in 1610, a religious order dedicated to serving the poor and educating young women. The order grew rapidly and was recognized for its emphasis on contemplative prayer, charitable works, and fostering a deep devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Saint Francis’s zeal for the salvation of souls was evident in his missionary efforts, particularly among Protestants in the region. He was known for his peaceful and loving demeanor, which disarmed many of his opponents. His method of dialogue and persuasion, rather than confrontation, brought many to the Catholic faith.
In his letters and homilies, he often exhorted his flock to be humble, patient, and compassionate in their daily lives. His warmth, kindness, and understanding made him beloved not only by Catholics but also by those who disagreed with him. St Francis de Sales exemplified the spirit of the Church’s missionary work: a loving invitation to all people to come to Christ.
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Death and Canonization
Saint Francis de Sales died on December 28, 1622, at the age of 55. His death was a moment of profound grief for the people of Geneva, who had come to love him deeply. His funeral was attended by thousands, including many Protestants who had been touched by his message of love and reconciliation.
In 1661, he was beatified by Pope Alexander VII, and in 1673, he was canonized by Pope Clement X. In 1923, Pope Pius XI declared him a Doctor of the Church, recognizing his contributions to theology and spirituality.
A good St Francis de Sales quote to remember often
"The same everlasting Father who cares for you today will care for you tomorrow and every day. Either he will shield you from suffering or give you unfailing strength to bear it. Be at peace then and put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginings."
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Legacy
Saint Francis de Sales is remembered as a model of holiness, a teacher of prayer and virtue, and a tireless missionary. His emphasis on the universal call to holiness, his writings on spiritual life, and his pastoral approach to evangelization continue to shape the lives of Catholics around the world. He is the patron saint of writers, journalists, and the deaf, and his feast day is celebrated on January 29th.
His teachings continue to inspire people to live out their faith in the midst of daily life, reminding us that holiness is not an unattainable ideal but a practical reality for all. Saint Francis de Sales’s message of peace, charity, and devotion remains a beacon of light for the Church and for all who seek to live a life of true Christian love.
Saint Rita of Cascia is a powerful saint to have a devotion to. Learn about her life along with an excellent St Rita novena you can add to your daily prayers. Read more here.
