St. Alphonsus Mary Liguori: A Life of Dedication and Compassion

•Bishop and Doctor 
•Feast day: August 1 
•1696-1787 

St. Alphonsus Mary Liguori, a revered figure in the Catholic Church, was born near Naples, Italy, in 1696. From an early age, he displayed remarkable intellect and dedication, receiving his education in the best schools of the city. At just 16, he earned a Doctorate in Law, marking the beginning of a promising career. However, a turning point came in 1722 when he experienced a profound personal crisis after losing the first case of his career. In this moment of despair, he heard an interior voice urging him, “Leave the world, and give yourself to me.” This divine call led him to a transformative path, steering him away from the legal profession and towards a life devoted to God.

After his ordination in 1726, Alphonsus quickly gained popularity for his engaging and accessible preaching style. He believed in making his sermons understandable to everyone, famously stating, “I have never preached a sermon which the poorest old woman in the congregation could not understand.” His compassionate approach extended to his fight against Jansenism, a heresy advocating a strict and punitive moral code. Alphonsus championed a more merciful stance, emphasizing that penitents should be treated as souls to be saved rather than as criminals to be punished. Notably, he never refused absolution to a penitent, reflecting his deep commitment to mercy and understanding.

In 1732, Alphonsus founded the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, also known as the Redemptorists. This religious congregation was dedicated to preaching popular missions in both urban and rural areas, spreading the message of redemption and compassion. St. Alphonsus’ contributions to moral theology were profound, with his masterpiece, The Moral Theology, receiving papal approval and cementing his reputation as a leading theologian.

Appointed Bishop of St. Agatha in 1756, St. Alphonsus embarked on a mission to reform both the clergy and the laity. He was unyielding in his efforts to uphold the sanctity of the Mass, suspending priests who rushed through the celebration in less than 15 minutes. His commitment to the poor was equally steadfast; he sold his carriage and episcopal ring to provide financial aid to those in need.

The final years of St. Alphonsus’ life were marked by suffering and hardship. He endured a painful illness and faced persecution from within his own congregation, leading to his dismissal. Despite these trials, he remained unwavering in his faith, viewing them as opportunities for spiritual growth and sanctification. St. Alphonsus passed away in 1787, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, and theological brilliance.

Today, St. Alphonsus Mary Liguori is remembered not only as the founder of the Redemptorists but also as a saint who lived a life of extraordinary virtue and commitment to the teachings of Christ. His legacy continues to inspire and guide those who seek to live a life of faith, mercy, and understanding.