Saint Alphonsus Maria de Liguori

Patron Saint of confessors, moral theologians, arthritis sufferers, the Redemptorists.

Feast Day: August 1st

Doctor of the Church, Bishop, and Religious

Marianella (near Naples), Italy

Public Domain: Catholic Encyclopedia – St. Alphonsus Liguori via Wikimedia Commons.

Feast Day: August 1st

Doctor of the Church, Bishop, and Religious

Marianella (near Naples), Italy

About

Saint Alphonsus Maria de Liguori (1696–1787) was an Italian bishop, theologian, and founder of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, better known as the Redemptorists. Born near Naples, he first trained as a lawyer but left that career after a humiliating courtroom defeat. Dedicating himself to God, Alphonsus was ordained a priest at age 30. He became a gifted preacher, spiritual director, and writer, particularly known for his pastoral care of the poor and neglected. As a bishop, he reformed his diocese with zeal, emphasizing moral theology, devotion to the Blessed Sacrament, and tender love for the Blessed Virgin Mary. His deep spirituality gave rise to numerous devotional prayers still treasured in the Church today.

Legacy

Saint Alphonsus is remembered as one of the most influential teachers of Catholic moral theology. His classic work Moral Theology guided confessors and remains highly regarded for its balance of truth and mercy. His devotional writings, including The Glories of Mary and Visits to the Blessed Sacrament, continue to nourish the faithful worldwide. In 1839, Pope Gregory XVI canonized him, and in 1871, Pope Pius IX declared him a Doctor of the Church. Today, St. Alphonsus is revered for his teaching on prayer, his love for Christ in the Eucharist, and his commitment to bringing the Gospel to the poor.

“Those who pray are certainly saved; those who do not pray are certainly damned.” — Saint Alphonsus Maria de Liguori