Francis chose to use his talents as a priest.
After his ordination, he became a strong voice in the Catholic Counter-Reformation (a resurgence in Catholicism following the Council of Trent), particularly in winning Catholics back from Calvinism. He was also a deeply spiritual man. His book, Introduction to the Devout Life, showed how everyday people could live a Christian life in the world.
In 1602, Francis was named bishop of Geneva, Switzerland, which was strong Calvinist territory. He believed a bishop's first duty was spiritual direction, and he was spiritual director for many people, including St. Jane Frances de Chantal. Together Francis and Jane founded the religious congregation, the Order of the Visitation, in 1610.
One day, a young deaf and mute man begged for alms at the house where Francis was staying. Realizing that the man's handicap meant he would never be educated or learn about the Catholic faith, Francis decided to teach him himself, communicating with him by using his hands and fingers to form signs.
St. Frances de Sales died on December 28, 1622. He is the patron saint of writers and of the deaf and hearing-impaired.
- Little Blue Book, Diocese of Saginaw