The Diocese of Phoenix recently celebrated the feast day of St. Francis de Sales, which is observed every year on Jan. 24 to recognize his contributions to the Catholic Church and life of ministry. 

St. Francis de Sales was named a Doctor of the Church in 1877. St. Francis de Sales is also remembered for the pamphlets he would pen and distribute to correct errors being circulated about the Catholic Church by heretics in his day.

“Today, we celebrate the Memorial of St. Francis de Sales, patron of journalists.  Ora pro nobis!” the Diocese of Phoenix posted on their Facebook account.

According to Franciscan Media: “St. Francis de Sales was born in 1567. His parents wanted him to become a lawyer like his father, so Francis studied law and earned his doctorate.  However, he felt called to the priesthood, and was eventually able to convince his father to allow him to pursue a religious life. He became a priest in the Diocese of Geneva and wrote many pamphlets explaining Catholic doctrine, which he distributed. At the age of 35, Francis was installed as the Bishop of Geneva. He wrote two books, Introduction to the Devout Life and A Treatise on the Love of God. In addition to being a writer, Francis was known for his gentle nature. St. Francis is the patron saint of authors, deafness, journalists, and writers.”

“Doctor of the Church” is a title which has been given to only 36 individuals throughout the formal life of the Catholic Church. 

According to Crossroads Initiative, “There are three requirements to becoming a Doctor of the Church: ‘holiness that is truly outstanding, even among saints’; ‘depth of doctrinal insight; and ‘an extensive body of writings which the church can recommend as an expression of the authentic and life-giving Catholic Tradition.’”