Salesian Spirituality

Salesian Spirituality is a way of living the Gospel as learned, lived, and shared by St. Francis de Sales (1567 – 1622) and St. Jane de Chantal (1572 – 1641). The first disciples of it were the Sisters of the Visitation of Holy Mary, a community of contemplative women established by these two saints in 1610. Their vision continues today, lived by people of all walks, states, and stages of life.


One cannot hope to adequately plumb the depths of this spirituality, but you can read some of the more salient attributes of Salesian spirituality.


Want to learn more about Salesian Spirituality?


Consider participating in the Annual Salesian Retreat (every November) or the annual Live Jesus! morning of reflection (every March), attending Fr. Michael’s monthly Salesian presentations, or digging deeper in one (or all) of our Salesian classes.


2026 Salesian Activities and Events

Salesian Classes

SPRING 2026

TOPIC: “St. Jane de Chantal: Telling the Story”

LEADER: Fr. Don Heet, OSFS

TIME/LOCATION: Wednesdays at 7 p.m. in the Auditorium

DATES: April 15, April 22, April 29 and May 6

Fr. Heet has been working on a video biography of Jane de Chantal: Wife, Mother, Friend of Francis de Sales, Co-founder of the Visitation, and Saint. In this course, participants will view the unfinished film and offer constructive suggestions on how it can be improved. In the process, they will learn a lot about this remarkable woman.

TOPIC: "In Your Journey of Life: Learn, Unlearn, and Relearn"

LEADER: Carol Swiger

TIME/LOCATION: Saturdays at 10 a.m. in the Conference Rm

DATES: April 18, April 25, May 2 and May 9

In this class we will look at how Salesian Spirituality and the wisdom of the Salesian Saints help us to grow and embrace the ever-changing state and stages of our lives.

 

We will explore how learning gives one tools, unlearning removes limitations, and relearning reshapes one’s vision. It is said that many people fail not because they cannot learn, but because they refuse to release what no longer serves them. Wisdom is not only the ability to acquire new knowledge; it is the humility to admit that some old beliefs must die for new strength to be born. 


 

Spring Salesian Class Registration

Save the Date:

LIVE JESUS!
March 6, 2027
Our Lady of Good Counsel, Vienna, VA.


Videos of the speaker presentations at Live Jesus! 2026 will be available here soon!

Presentations from Live Jesus! 2025

To read more on the depths of Salesian Spirituality, visit Salesian Resources and Reflections.