St. Alphonsus Liguori

Feast Day: August 1

“He who prays is certainly saved; he who does not pray is certainly damned.” – St. Alphonsus Liguori

Doctor of Moral Theology and Mercy

St. Alphonsus Liguori is honored as a Doctor of the Church, a master of moral theology, and the founder of the Redemptorists. His feast day, celebrated on August 1, commemorates his life of prayer, compassion, and tireless efforts to bring the mercy of God to sinners.

A Brilliant Lawyer Turned Priest

Alphonsus was born in 1696 near Naples, Italy, into a noble family. By the age of 16, he had earned a doctorate in both civil and canon law, quickly becoming a highly respected lawyer.

However, after losing an important case due to corruption and deception, Alphonsus recognized the vanity of worldly success. He left his legal career behind, dedicating his life fully to God’s service, and was ordained a priest in 1726.

Apostle of Mercy and Confession

As a priest, Alphonsus became known for his zealous preaching, compassionate confessions, and care for the poor and abandoned. He had a special concern for those most neglected by society and worked tirelessly to make God’s mercy known.

His practical, accessible teaching on the faith and moral theology emphasized that God’s justice is always balanced by His infinite mercy.

Founder of the Redemptorists

In 1732, Alphonsus founded the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer (Redemptorists), a missionary order dedicated to preaching the Gospel, especially to the poor, forgotten, and spiritually abandoned.

The Redemptorists became known for their simple missions, parish renewals, and outreach to rural communities, focusing on God’s mercy and the call to conversion.

A Master of Prayer and Theology

Alphonsus was not only a preacher but also a prolific writer. He authored over 100 works, including the beloved book “The Glories of Mary” and “The Way of the Cross.” His writings on prayer, the Eucharist, the Passion of Christ, and devotion to Mary continue to inspire the faithful worldwide.

As a moral theologian, he brought balance to the extremes of harsh rigorism and lax permissiveness, teaching a path that upheld both truth and compassion.

Patron of Confessors and Moral Theologians

St. Alphonsus is the patron saint of confessors, moral theologians, and the lay faithful struggling with scruples or sin, offering an example of how mercy, prayer, and devotion lead to holiness.

A Witness to Mercy, Prayer, and Love for the Poor

St. Alphonsus Liguori’s life reminds the faithful that God’s mercy is greater than any sin, and that prayer is the key to salvation. His deep love for the Eucharist, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and the poor continues to guide countless souls toward God’s infinite love.

St. Alphonsus Liguori, pray for us!