For catechists, the life of Francis de Sales offers a deeply reassuring and practical model of ministry—one rooted not in force or brilliance alone, but in gentleness, patience, and trust in God’s quiet work in hearts.

Living during the upheaval of the Protestant Reformation, Francis entered a world marked by division and strong opinions. Sent to a region shaped by Calvinism, he did not respond with condemnation or argument. Instead, he chose persistence, clarity, and above all, charity. When people would not listen to him preach, he wrote—slipping pamphlets under doors, trusting that truth, offered gently, would find its way. Over time, hearts softened—not because he won debates, but because he reflected Christ’s own patience.

For catechists, this speaks directly to the daily reality of teaching faith in a complex world. Not every teaching is received with enthusiasm. Not every heart is ready. Francis reminds us that evangelization is not about immediate results, but faithful presence. The seeds we plant may take time—sometimes a lifetime—to bear fruit.

His collaboration with St. Jane Frances de Chantal in founding the Visitation community also reveals something essential: catechesis is never a solitary task. It is shared, relational, and sustained in community. We accompany one another, just as we accompany those we teach.

Perhaps Francis de Sales’ most enduring gift to catechists is his conviction that holiness is universal and deeply personal. In his great works, Introduction to the Devout Life and Treatise on the Love of God, he insists that devotion is not reserved for the few or the cloistered. It is lived in the ordinary rhythms of life—adapted to each person’s circumstances, responsibilities, and capacity.

For catechists, this is a profound invitation: we are not forming people into a single mold of holiness but helping each person discover how God is calling them to live the Gospel—in their family, their work, their struggles, and their joys.

In a world that often values quick answers and visible success, Francis de Sales calls catechists to something deeper: to teach with kindness, to accompany with humility, and to trust that God is at work—even in ways we cannot yet see.

Reflections to Hold, Pray, and Live

• How do I respond when those I teach seem uninterested, resistant, or disengaged? What might “gentleness” look like in those moments?

• How do I help those I teach recognize that God is calling them to holiness right where they are?

Author:

Sister Janet Schaeffler, OP
Member, NCCL Board of Directors

Her book, SAINTS & MENTORS for Catechists: 41 Models of Faith to Support and Guide You, can be purchased from Twenty-Third Publications
[GET YOUR COPY HERE]

Learn more about Janet and her publications at https://www.janetschaeffler.com/