Salesian Literature

On 5th September 1591, he completed his legal studies for a Doctorate in law and passed the examination with such great success that he won the admiration of his own professors and of all present.  Then he went on pilgrimage to Loretto and on an education tour to some towns in Italy. In February 1592, Francis returned to Savoy.  He wanted to become a priest.  His father was strongly opposed to it.

 

On 24th November 1592, not to displease his father, he enrolled himself as an advocate at the Bar of Chambery.  It was while returning from Chambery on horseback that his belt got unbuckled and his sword fell to the ground.  His sword came out of the scabbard with its point directed towards him.  Francis understood this to be a clear sign that God wanted him to put aside the sword in order to become a priest.

 

On 7th March 1593, the document appointing Francis as Provost [The post of Provost is more or less equivalent to that of the Vicar General of a diocese today.  The Provost was the person next in rank to the Bishop], was signed by Roman authorities, through the mediation of Louis de Sales, his cousin and supported by his own Bishop, Mgr. De Granier.  On 7th May, the document was brought to Annecy by Louis de Sales.  Then Louis de Sales together with Francis approached M. de Boisy to seek his permission.  Finally, the great old man gave in to the persuasion of Louis de Sales and others and granted his son permission to follow his vocation to the priesthood.

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