Salesian Literature

From December 1586 to January 1587, Francis underwent a terrible crisis, a temptation, a trial.  There were several causes:  his natural tendency to anxiety and the problem of predestination, keenly discussed in theological circles in those days.[1]  Above all, there was a mystical dimension to the trial: an unselfish, pure love of God and total surrender to him in which lay the answer to his problems as he was being tempted to despair of his own salvation.

 

It was at the age of nineteen, in 1586, that Francis underwent a serious spiritual crisis which he overcame through recourse to the intercession of Mary, Mother and Queen.  One day in January 1587, Francis went into the Church of St. Etienne des Grés.  He went to the chapel of our Lady and knelt down in front of the statue.  He was inspired to make an unconditional surrender of his salvation to God, using the words: “O God, Just Judge and Merciful Father, at least in this life will I love You, if it is not given to me to love You in life everlasting.”  Then he saw there a card with the prayer Memorare: “Remember, O Most Gracious Virgin Mary…” He took it and earnestly prayed it.  He was instantly healed.  The temptation vanished.  Strength and confidence returned to him.

 

In 1588, Francis completed his studies in Paris and returned to Savoy.  On 26th December 1588, he was sent to Padua, to pursue his studies further.  He had only a short stay at home.  In Padua, he studied civil and ecclesiastical law.  He also followed courses in theology.  Fr. Possevin s.j. (1534-1611) was chosen by him as his spiritual director.  In January 1591, Francis became very seriously ill and received viaticum.  There was scarcely any hope of recovery.  All the same, he was healed.

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