Francis’s father wanted him to be a lawyer so that the young man could take his elder’s place as a senator from the province of Savoy in France. So Francis moved to Padua to study law. After receiving his doctorate, he returned home and patiently, gently, Francis persuaded his father to give his consent so that he could become a priest. Francis was ordained and elected provost of the Diocese of Geneva, then a center for the Calvinists. Francis had great success converting them by preaching and distributing pamphlets he wrote to explain true Catholic faith.
He wrote the Introduction to the Devout Life and A Treatise on the Love of God, many pamphlets and letters. For his writings, he has been named patron of the Catholic Press. His writings, filled with his characteristic gentle spirit, are addressed to lay people. He wants to make them understand that they too are called to be saints.
His works are on my list of reads for one of these days. Thanks.
Wonderful! I’ve been reading about the Saints but did not know about Saint Francis de Sales. I had heard the quote before on gentleness and strength but did not realize where it was from. He is a blessing to me already and I look forward to reading more! I thank God for this Saint.