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Saint Francis de Sales was a Savoyard prelate from the early 17th century, renowned for his great gentleness and his humanismBishop of Geneva residing in Annecy, a prolific spiritual writer and founder of a religious order, he left his mark on the history of the Catholic Church through his kindness and his innovative pastoral approach. Even today, he is revered as a model of charity, patience, and optimism.

Annual Gatherings, Spiritual Retreats

We welcome pilgrims who come to experience a spiritual respite and discover a vibrant, warm, and living Saint Francis de Sales through:

The conference was led by Father Thierry MOLARD (Oblate of Saint Francis de Sales) "The spirituality of Saint Francis through the 5 senses"

A visit to Thorens Castle and the Chapel
A time for discussion and a meal in the castle courtyard
The celebration led by Father Thierry Molard at the chapel

These days, open to all, are organised by the Pastoral Care for Tourism, Diocese of Annecy (Father Stéphane RAUX, Oblate of SFDS) and, in this year 2025, on the occasion of the ordinary jubilee of the Catholic Church.

We had already welcomed pilgrims in previous years and attended, among other things, a conference by Father Tournade on the theme “Saint Francis de Sales, adventurer and diplomat”.

Inspired by his book of the same name, this presentation allowed us to get to know Saint Francis de Sales better and to appreciate this moment thanks to the humor and oratorical talents of Father Tournade (Oblate of SFDS and Doctor of Letters).

Commemoration

To mark the 400th anniversary of the death of Saint Francis de Sales (1622-2022), the Salesian Heritage Foundation organised two events in homage to the Holy Man.

Theatrical performance at the Château with the actor Alain Carré accompanied on the piano by François René Duchable.

Issuance of a commemorative stamp Featuring the image of François de Sales, in partnership with the local Philatelic Society. This special limited edition stamp celebrates the memory of the Bishop of Geneva and Doctor of the Church.

This is a symbolic way of spreading the image and message of Francis de Sales even into the postal world. This philatelic project, completed at the end of 2022, is part of our commemorative activities: it keeps the saint's legacy alive four centuries after his passing.

Welcome to the Salesians of the World

Each year, more than 1000 Salesians from all over the world stop at the castle.

It was in this way that Salesian sisters from Texas, Brazil among others, came to push open the door of the drawbridge, all moved to be there, to enter the Castle and to be able to pray in the chapel, on the very place where Francis was born.

Salesians from Hong Kong also stopped at the castle for a day.

The visit, the meal at the castle, and the time spent reflecting in the chapel reminded us once again of the importance of opening the doors of this place, which is more alive than ever, to everyone.

"You are our guests, welcome."

Salesian Nights

Thorens Castle resonated with the sounds of spiritual and cultural performances in honor of Saint Francis de Sales.

For one weekend, the castle courtyard is transformed into an open-air stage to host concerts, readings and performances inspired by the life and thought of Francis.

This unique event allows the Salesian spirit to live on and, with the same charity, to write about spirituality adapted to the 21st century. The walls then resonate with the words of Saint Francis, taken up by contemporary artists.

The video souvenir of those nights is accessible via this QR code, extending thus the experience for visitors. Through the "Salesian Nights", the foundation combines culture and spirituality, making family heritage a place of wonder and meditation shared by all.

Welcoming our Salesian friends

Welcoming our Salesian friends On Saturday, January 31st, we had the great joy of welcoming a group of Salesians to the castle from