In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Today is the memorial of St. Francis de Sales a bishop and Doctor (Father) of our Church.

He was well-known for his deep faith and his gentle approach to the religious divisions resulting from the Protestant Reformation. The Protestant Reformation was a time where God's Church broke into many pieces. Some people like St. Francis de Sale, known for writing on topics of spiritual direction and spiritual formation worked to heal the divisions. He is patron saint for writers and journalists because of his great preaching and ability to sway souls to God.

Let us ponder some wisdom of St. Francis:

"Do not wish to be anything but what you are and try to be that perfectly."

"Never be in a hurry; do everything quietly and in a calm spirit. Do not lose your inner peace for anything whatsoever, even if your whole world seems upset."

"Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself.  Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections, but instantly set about remedying them – every day begin the task anew."

"Make friends with the angels, who though invisible are always with you. Often invoke them, constantly praise them and make good use of their help and assistance in all your temporal and spiritual affairs."

Let us pray:

God, You give us many gifts.

Help us work together to realize your Kingdom.

Help us never leave anyone out of our circles of care.

May all people know that they belong in our family

and we belong to each other.

God bless our country, our community, and our school.

Thank You God for life

Thank you God for creation

Thank you God for parents

Thank you God for teachers

Thank you God for friends

Thank you God for family

Thank you God for Canada

Thank you God for our strong voice

Thank you God for your gift of love

With the patience and graciousness of St. Francis de Sales, we move into our day in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.