Many Catholics were experiencing tremendous social pressure to leave the Church, so to assist his flock, Bishop Francis wrote extensively on the spiritual life. He knew that if Catholic grew to spiritual maturity, they would not only have the strength to withstand those social pressures, but they would be able to fulfill their vocation to witness to the truth of Jesus Christ.
Two of his books are spiritual classics which continue to be published and read to this day: The Introduction to the Devout Life, and The Treatise on the Love of God. Both books offer practical advice for Catholics living in the midst of the world to pursue a life of sanctity.
Growth in the spiritual life is not automatic. In this way, it is different from the physical life. A child will naturally develop into a young adult, then an adult, then an older adult, just by doing what comes naturally. But growing in spiritual maturity is different.
Spiritual growth requires discipline, intentionality, focus on overcoming our errors and vices, seeking to advance in the virtues of faith, hope, and especially charity.
To advance in holiness means to become more like God, who Himself is selfless and boundless charity. We see this love embodied in Jesus who makes a complete gift of himself to his Father for our salvation. He says in the Gospel for today, “If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and remain in his love”
St. Francis de Sales taught that all people, in all walks of life, are called by God to a devout life—a holy life. Growing in holiness is a process, and “the Lord delights in every little step you take.” But taking steps in the right direction is up to us. God will not force us into spiritual maturity. And sadly, many people go their entire lives advancing very little, because they are unwilling to take those steps.
As we celebrate the feast of St. Francis de Sales, let us be inspired by his life and teaching to take those small but significant steps toward spiritual maturity. He reminds us that holiness is not reserved for the clergy or religious but is a universal call for every Christian, no matter their state in life. By seeking to grow in virtue, remaining faithful to God's commandments, and embracing a life of intentional prayer and self-giving love, we become more like Christ and fulfill the purpose for which we were created. With God’s grace, those small steps, taken daily, lead us closer to the ultimate goal of union with Him. May St. Francis de Sales intercede for us and inspire us to live devoutly and courageously in the midst of the world for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.
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Presider: Inspired by the example and teaching of St. Francis de Sales, let us bring our prayers before God, seeking His grace to grow in holiness and serve Him faithfully.
For the Church: That all Christians may heed the universal call to holiness and embrace a life of devotion and charity, as taught by St. Francis de Sales.
For bishops, priests, and religious: That they may follow the example of St. Francis de Sales in shepherding their flocks with wisdom, compassion, and courage.
For all who work in education and communication: That, like St. Francis de Sales, they may use their gifts to spread truth, foster understanding, and inspire others to grow in faith
For ourselves: That we may embrace intentionality in our spiritual lives, striving to overcome sin and grow in faith, hope, and charity.
For those who struggle because of addiction, mental illness, chronic sickness, unemployment, or ongoing trials of any kind: that they may be healed and strengthened in Christ. And for the victims of the fires in California.
For the departed: That all who have died in faith may find eternal rest in God’s presence, we pray to the Lord.
Presider: Heavenly Father, you gave us St. Francis de Sales as a model of holiness and a guide for living devoutly in the world. Hear the prayers we offer through his intercession, and grant us the grace to grow in your love and truth. We ask this through Christ our Lord.
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