St. Francis de Sales College

1567

Born in Thorens, Savoy (now part of France), near Geneva, Switzerland.
1578

Received tonsure, aspiring to become a priest.

1593

Ordained priest by Bishop de Granier.

1602

Consecrated Bishop of Geneva in Thorens, after a lengthy exile due to Protestant Reformation.
1622

Suffered an apoplexy and passed away on 28th December 1622 at the age of 55, on the Feast of the Holy Innocents.
1661

Beatified by Pope Alexander VII.
1665

Canonized by Pope Alexander VII.

1877

Declared Doctor of the Church by Pope Pius IX
1923

Declared Patron of Catholic Writers and Journalists by Pope Pius XI.

St. Francis de Sales: The Patron of SFS College

St. Francis de Sales, the patron of SFS College, was a great scholar, writer, orator, founder, and a much sought-after spiritual leader. He was born on August 21, 1567, in Thorens, Savoy, a region close to Geneva in Switzerland and Annecy in France. His parents, Francois de Sales (Monsieur de Boisy) and Francoise de Sionnaz (Madame de Boisy), belonged to a noble family with significant political influence.

Early Life and Education:
Monsieur de Boisy, through his life example and firm guidance, taught Francis to be honest, sincere, frank, straightforward, and courageous, with a great sense of justice, kindness, generosity, and integrity. From his mother, he inherited a kind, compassionate, and affectionate heart, along with a tender devotion.
Francis studied literature and philosophy and learned arts such as fencing, riding, and dance, befitting nobles. After completing his college studies in Paris, he was sent to Padua for higher studies, where he studied both civil and ecclesiastical law. After earning his doctorate in both fields, he returned home to Savoy.

Dedication to a Spiritual Life:
Despite his father's plans for him, Francis nursed a desire to dedicate his life to God and his people by becoming a priest. His father eventually consented to his decision. Francis de Sales was ordained a priest in 1593 and worked hard as a pastor, guide, and educator. In 1602, recognizing his qualities and qualifications, Church authorities elevated him to the position of Bishop.

Patron

Leadership and Legacy:
As a bishop, Francis de Sales cared for the spiritual welfare and overall development of his people. He inspired many through his writings and life example. Among his numerous works, two spiritual classics stand out: "The Introduction to the Devout Life" and "A Treatise on the Love of God." His wisdom and guidance were sought by kings and rulers.

Francis de Sales died at the age of 55 on December 28, 1622. Recognizing his holiness, he was canonized as a saint by Pope Alexander VII in 1665. St. Francis de Sales’ life and teachings continue to inspire the mission and values of SFS College, guiding the institution in its pursuit of excellence and holistic education.