Today we celebrate the feast of the 17th century Bishop and Doctor of the Church, Francis de Sales. Preaching was at the center of his ministry, which is why he took as his motto, "He who preaches with love, preaches well."
They said he preached so well, because he showed gentleness and loving mercy in his every word, and was so very practical in his spiritual advice. One of his favorite sayings was:
“Half an hour's meditation each day is essential, except when you are busy. Then a full hour is needed.”
So on this feast of Saint Francis de Sales, let us give thanks for all those good and loving preachers who have led us closer to God, and all the ones whom God will send us for the rest of our lives.
