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 Fall Salesian Retreat (every November) or the annual Live Jesus! morning of reflection (every March), attending monthly Salesian presentations, or digging deeper in one (or all) of our Salesian classes.


2026-27 Salesian Activities and Events


SALESIAN PRESENTATIONS



Monthly Salesian presentations are a wonderful way to get acquainted with Salesian Spirituality. Each presentation is led by one of our Oblate priests and focuses on adding the spirituality of St. Francis de Sales to your spiritual life.


Sessions are held in the Brown-McCarthy Auditorium at 7 p.m.

OCTOBER 14, 2026


"Heresies Old & New"

Presenter:
Fr. Marc Gherardi, OSFS


NOVEMBER 11, 2026


"What It Means to be Salesian: Sacred, Humble & Obedient"
Presenter:

Fr. Don Heet, OSFS

DECEMBER 2, 2026


"Five Ways to Grow
in Our Own Kind of Holiness According to St. Francis de Sales"

Presenter:
Fr. Sleeva Kala, OSFS

IMPORTANT:

For all Salesian events, your registration is only complete if you receive an email confirmation. If you do NOT receive an email, you have not completed registration. If you are experiencing any issues with registering online or have any questions, please email ewright@saintjn.org. Thank you!

Salesian Presentation Registration


SALESIAN CLASSES

Winter 2027

TOPIC: "How Did We Get Here?"


Fr. Marc will address the tough question: Why has Christianity been so misunderstood and misused in the past few decades?

LEADER: Fr. Marc Gherardi, OSFS

TIME/LOCATION: Tuesdays at 10 a.m. in the Auditorium

DATES: February 9, February 16, and February 23, 2027

TOPIC: "When God is Silent"


This three-session class will explore the challenges of finding spiritual peace amid the storms of life.

LEADER: Carol Swiger

TIME/LOCATION: Saturdays at 10 a.m. in Rooms A2/A3

DATES: February 6, February 13, and February 20, 2027

Watch for registration details around Christmas!

Save the Date:

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


Videos of the speaker presentations from Live Jesus! 2026:
Presentations from Live Jesus! 2025

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