This section of our web site provides an opportunity to learn more about the lives and legacies of some of the sources and followers of the Salesian spiritual tradition through both their biographies and selected thoughts/quotes from their writings.
St. Francis de Sales (1567-1622) provides the name given (and theological/pastoral foundation for) given to “Salesian” spirituality. He was priest, missionary, preacher catechist, bishop and diplomat best-known for his practical, down-to-earth approach to living the Gospel.
St. Jane de Chantal (1572-1641) was a friend of and co-worker with St. Francis de Sales. A widowed mother of four adult children, she founded the Visitation of Holy Mary with St. Francis de Sales. By the time of her death over eight Visitation communities had been established.
St. Leonie Aviat, OSFS (1844-1914) co-founded the Oblate Sisters of St. Francis de Sales with the (now) Venerable Louis Brisson, OSFS. Her congregation was founded to provide for both the physical, social and spiritual needs of young women working long days in factories and mills springing up throughout France during the Industrial Revolution. They also served in oversees missions.
Venerable Louis Brisson, OSFS (1817-1908) was a diocesan priest who (along with Mary de Sales Chappuis, VHM) founded the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales, a congregation dedicated to spreading the optimistic, inspired-common-sense wisdom of St. Francis de Sales in a variety of ministries and apostolates.
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