IV centuries with Saint François de Sales

between theology, history of art, and heritage

Abstract

François de Sales (1567-1622) served as the bishop of the diocese of Geneva- Annecy in the 17th century. His renown began when Charles-Emmanuel 1st, the Duke of Savoy, entrusted him with the task of re-establishing Catholicism in a portion of his territory near Geneva, the Calvinist part, which had converted to Protestantism a few years earlier. In this endeavor, François de Sales composed his sermons, titled «Les Controverses,» and discreetly delivered them to the residents slipping them under the doors, as he was unable to proclaim them publicly. To connect with the people, he transitioned from using Latin to employing French, thereby fostering a sense of civil devotion. As a consequence, he assumed the role of a spiritual guide for noblewomen, offering a set of guidelines published under the title «Introduction to the Devout Life.» Nevertheless, he also was a erudite bishop who championed the Love of God in a theological work titled «Treatise on the Love of God,» which remains a subject of study for contemporary priests. In collaboration with Jeanne de Rabutin Chantal, he established the Visitation Sainte-Marie, which would go on to establish numerous convents in many countries during the 17th and 18th centuries. As an art historian, my specialization has led me to investigate the enduring influence of François de Sales throughout these centuries, primarily in the religious heritage of Savoy.