NovenasSt. Francis de Sales Novena
Novena to the Doctor of Divine Love
A nine-day novena to St. Francis de Sales, the gentle Bishop of Geneva who won back thousands to the faith through kindness. He is the patron of writers, journalists, and the deaf.
Complete prayer texts. No account needed.
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For gentleness
Sign of the Cross
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Opening Prayer
O God, who for the salvation of souls willed that the Bishop Saint Francis de Sales become all things to all, graciously grant that, following his example, we may always display the gentleness of Your charity in the service of our neighbor.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son, who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Meditation
Francis de Sales was known for his extraordinary gentleness. He said, 'Nothing is so strong as gentleness, nothing so gentle as real strength.' This gentleness won more converts than any argument.
In our harsh world, gentleness is often seen as weakness. But Francis shows us it is the way of Christ, who was meek and humble of heart.
Prayer
St. Francis de Sales, you caught more flies with a spoonful of honey than a barrel of vinegar. Help me to be gentle in my words and actions, winning others to Christ through kindness.
(Mention your intentions here)
Prayer to St. Francis de Sales
O blessed Francis de Sales, who practiced such remarkable gentleness and patience in dealing with souls, obtain for me the grace to imitate your kindness in all my dealings with others. Help me to win hearts for Christ through love rather than harshness.
Our Father
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
Hail Mary
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
Glory Be
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
St. Francis de Sales, pray for us. Amen.
About this novena
A nine-day novena to St. Francis de Sales, the gentle Bishop of Geneva who won back thousands to the faith through kindness. He is the patron of writers, journalists, and the deaf.
January 16-23 (Feast: January 24), or any time
Traditional start: January 24
You can begin a novena at any time. Traditional dates are a guide, not a requirement.
