Today (January 24) we celebrate the feast day of a great Doctor of the Church, St. Francis de Sales. Born at the peak of Protestantism, he became a clear voice in defending the Catholic faith. He was also a strong advocate for the Church’s need of dedicated women who are living a strong spiritual life, but who are also engaged in an active apostolate.

Did you know that the tenets of Calvinism had pushed St. Francis to the brink of suicide? Watch the below video of a talk by Fr. John A. Hardon to learn more about this little-known fact. While you’re there, take time to grow in your faith by learning the eight principal features of St. Francis’ spirituality.

If you’d like to download the talk, here is a link to the MP3 file.

The spiritual pedigree of St. Francis is unmatched, and combined with the sound teaching of Fr. Hardon, you will becoming strengthened and convicted in your faith.

Happy Feast of St. Francis de Sales!