I am unable to take you on a pilgrimage today. Being in the midst of exams, going fuori Roma is not a possibility at the moment. More unfortunate still is the fact that the relics of Saint Francis de Sales were lost in the French Revolution. So, we’re going to celebrate Saint Francis de Sales today staycation style right here in Rome.
This saint has quite a lot to teach us. As we celebrate him I refer you all to exploring his writing, which he chalks full of quotable wisdom. A few books you can start your search with are, Introduction to the Devout Life, The Catholic Controversy, or Finding God’s Will for You.
Saint Francis lived in the 16 and 17th centuries and left several significant influences on society. He actively confronted protestantism with the Church teaching, and advocated commitment to living the Faith in the midst of common life. Saint Francis de Sales is a doctor of the Church, and indeed his writing makes evident his great capacity to teach the Faith.
Here are a few gems of Francis de Sales wisdom that may inspire you to discover our celebrated saint a bit further:
Nothing is so strong as gentleness, nothing so gentle as real strength.
Half an hour’s meditation each day is essential, except when you are busy. Then a full hour is needed.
Do not wish to be anything but what you are, and try to be that perfectly.
St. Francis de Sales, pray for us!
The Pilgrimage 