St. Francis de Sales (1567–1622) was a bishop, theologian, and one of the most beloved saints of the Catholic Church. Renowned for his kindness, patience, and deep spirituality, he became a guiding figure during the Counter-Reformation. As bishop of Geneva, he worked to reconcile Protestants to the Catholic Church through gentle persuasion and a pastoral approach. His writings, especially Introduction to the Devout Life and Treatise on the Love of God, emphasize the possibility of holiness in everyday life. St. Francis is the patron saint of writers, journalists, and the deaf. He was canonized in 1665 and declared a Doctor of the Church in 1877.

The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) has decreed that this is a Holy Day of Memorial to be observed in Canada.