St. Francis de Sales was a French bishop and a prominent figure in the Catholic Church during the 17th century. Born on August 21, 1567, he is best known for his writings on spiritual direction and his efforts to promote the Catholic faith during the Protestant Reformation. He became the Bishop of Geneva and worked tirelessly to convert Calvinists back to Catholicism. He is the patron saint of writers and journalists, celebrated for his gentle approach to spirituality. St. Francis de Sales emphasized the importance of love and humility in one's relationship with God. He was canonized in 1665 and declared a Doctor of the Church in 1877.