Saint Francis de Sales (1567–1622) was Bishop of Geneva during a time of great religious division, known for his patience and extraordinary gentleness in winning hearts back to the faith. He wrote the Introduction to the Devout Life, teaching that holiness is possible for everyone in ordinary life, and with Saint Jane Frances de Chantal he founded the Visitation Sisters. He is a Doctor of the Church and the patron of writers and journalists.
Francis believed that gentleness accomplishes what force never can, famously teaching that a spoonful of honey attracts more than a barrel of vinegar. He shows us that tenderness is not weakness but strength, and that God meets us kindly in our everyday duties, sorrows, and small acts of love.
Saint Francis de Sales, teacher of gentle hearts, help us to be patient with ourselves and tender with one another, and lead us closer to the God who is all love. Amen.Enter today’s Mass → All saints →