Patron of writers, Journalists and the Deaf. 1567-1622. As the elder son of a noble family in the Duchy of Savoy, he was intended to succeed his father as Duke. Instead, despite initial opposition from his father, he relinquished his place as eldest son to a younger brother to devote himself to the priesthood of Jesus Christ.
Saint Francis was gentle and down-to-earth in his preaching and pastoral work as a spiritual director. His Introduction to the Devout Life is the first work targeting laypeople and their call to holiness. Most earlier writings were for priests and religious in monasteries and convents. Here is a sample of his practical advice for families and individuals.
Keep up the following practices. In the morning, prepare your soul to be at peace. Take care throughout the day to remember that resolution and to reaffirm it. Should you become disturbed, do not lose heart. And do not be pained by it. But having recognized the situation calmly, humble yourself before God and attempt to restore your mind to peace.
Say to your soul: 'Now friend, we have made a misstep, Let us proceed more carefully.' And each time you fall, do the same thing. When you are at peace, make good use of the time, making as many acts of humility as you can, however insignificant they may be. For as the Lord says. He who is faithful in little things will have great ones entrusted to him. Above all, do not lose courage, but be patient, watchful and ready with a spirit of compassion. God will hold you in his hand, and if he lets you stumble, it will be only so that you realize that you would collapse entirely if he did not hold you, and thus to make you tighten your grip upon his hand.
Today’s Gospel passage gives Jesus’ crushing reply to the slander propagated by the observers from the Sanhedrin, that Jesus expelled devils using the assistance of the leader of devils.
Jesus refutes the false allegation raised against him and tells them that they are sinning against the Holy Spirit who is at work exorcising demons.
"I would rather account to God for too great gentleness than for too great severity. Is not God all love? God the Father is the Father of mercy; God the Son is a Lamb; God the Holy Spirit is a Dove-that is, gentleness itself. And are you wiser than God?" - Francis de Sales
- Father Willy's inspirational homily was recorded live this morning during Mass at the Father Peyton Center. Please view the video on our Facebook page.(You don't need a Facebook account to view.)
- To view Rosary prayer and Mass streaming live, please visit our Facebook page at 11:30 am EST, Monday – Friday. Please invite your loved ones to join us too! (You don't need a Facebook account to view.)
