The Year of St. Francis de Sales
2022 – 2023
December 28, 2022 is the 400 death anniversary of St. Francis de Sales, the Gentleman Saint, who lived a
simple life and left a spiritual legacy for the coming generations. All the religious congregations and entities
following the spirituality of St. Francis de Sales are making this important day as a time of celebration and
commemoration.
The Superior General of The Missionaries of St. Francis de Sales, Very Reverend Dr. Abraham Vettuvelil,
MSFS declared this year as the Year of St. Francis de Sales, marking different celebrations in all the 33
countries where Fransalian priests are currently working. The Year of St. Francis de Sales begins on Divine
Mercy Sunday, April 24, 2022 and ends on Divine Mercy Sunday, April 16, 2023.
The focus of our celebration during this year is the study of St. Francis de Sales; imitation of his virtues;
and applying his method of pastoral care with compassion and gentleness to everyone.
Congregations/Legal Entities Following the Spirituality of St. Francis de Sales
Pope Francis has agreed to write a letter on St. Francis de
Sales to mark the 400th death anniversary.
Wednesday with St. Francis de Sales: Every Wednesday
from April 27th: Nearly 13 Congregations and Lay Associates are participating in giving a 5-minute reflection on St.
Francis de Sales spirituality.
Celebrations in Annecy (organized by MSFS Franco-Swiss
Province) inviting Confreres from all over Europe.
A short documentary on St. Francis de Sales and a special
calendar for 2023.
Starting the Formation Program for Fransalian Associates in
all the Provinces in view of their consecration in January
2024.
On December 28, 2022 (death date of St. Francis de Sales),
there will be a program at the congregational level to reach
out to the people in need of support.
In the USA Vice-Province
Seminars and symposiums in different parishes on
St. Francis de Sales
Adding a “Fransalian Corner” in the parish bulletins
Making Salesian literature available in parishes
Inviting parishioners to study the writings of St. Francis de
Sales and live his virtues.
Mission preaching/workshops on Salesian spirituality in
parishes.
Inviting faithful to join the lay apostolate of the Fransalians.