Saint Alphonsus Liguori: A Doctor of the Church, Founder and Prolific Author

Saint Alphonsus Maria Liguori (1696-1787) is one of the great saints of the Catholic Church. Recognized as a Doctor of the Church, he is known for his commitment to moral theology, his devotion to Mary, and his role in founding the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, better known as the Redemptorists. His life, works, and teachings continue to influence millions of faithful around the world. This article explores in detail his biography, theological work, spirituality, and enduring legacy.

 

Relic of Saint Alphonsus Liguori on relics.es

 

Biography of Saint Alphonsus Liguori

Childhood and Education

Family Origins and Religious Influence

Alfonso Maria de Liguori was born on September 27, 1696 in Marianella, a small village near Naples, Italy. He was the first of seven children of Giuseppe de Liguori and Anna Cavalieri, a noble family deeply rooted in religious traditions. This aristocratic origin offered him from a very young age a privileged environment, conducive to a quality education.

His father, Giuseppe de Liguori, was a respected naval officer, rigorous and concerned with discipline. He dreamed of seeing his eldest son succeed in a prestigious career, particularly in law or politics. His mother, Anna Cavalieri, embodied Christian piety. She ensured the religious education of her children, transmitting Christian values ​​to them with tenderness and dedication. Thanks to his mother's influence, Alphonse developed a deep faith in God and a particular devotion to the Virgin Mary at a very early age.

An Early and Brilliant Education

Alphonse distinguished himself from an early age by his exceptional intelligence and thirst for knowledge. He received a private education under the supervision of qualified tutors, as was common in noble families of the time. At only 12 years old, he already mastered several languages, including Latin, Greek, French and Spanish, which gave him access to a wide variety of classical and theological texts.

His father, eager to make him a brilliant jurist, enrolled him at the University of Naples. Alfonso began studying civil and canon law there. Although still a teenager, he impressed his teachers with his lively mind and seriousness. At the age of 16, in 1713, he successfully obtained his doctorate in civil and canon law, making him one of the youngest graduates of the Neapolitan university. This precocity quickly propelled him to the forefront of the legal scene.

A Promising Career as a Lawyer

Barely having graduated, Alfonso began practicing as a lawyer at the Naples bar, where he quickly built a solid reputation. His eloquence, intellectual rigor and sense of justice earned him many successful cases. In a short time, he became one of the most prominent lawyers in the city, attracting a prestigious clientele among the Neapolitan elite.

Despite his success, Alphonse remained sensitive to the social inequalities he observed in the judicial system of his time. He distinguished himself by his commitment to defending the poorest and the oppressed, sometimes agreeing to plead without asking for fees. This altruistic attitude already reveals a central aspect of his personality: his deep concern for social justice and human dignity.

The Defeat That Changed His Life

However, in 1723, an event turned his career and life upside down. Alphonse agreed to plead a complex case concerning an important land dispute. Convinced of the justice of his cause, he prepared his argument with the greatest care. However, when the time came to reach a verdict, the court ruled in favor of the opposing side, revealing that crucial documents had been deliberately falsified. Deeply shocked by this unjust decision, Alphonse felt a deep disillusionment with the corruption and injustice of the judicial system.

This judicial failure marked a decisive turning point in his life. Devastated, he left the court with these famous words: “World, I know you now; farewell, court!” From this moment on, Alphonse begins to question the meaning of his life and the purpose of his earthly ambitions. He perceives this incident as a divine call to renounce the vanities of the world in order to devote himself entirely to the service of God.

The Path to Conversion

After this defeat, Alphonse began a period of intense spiritual reflection. He often withdrew into solitude to pray and meditate, seeking to understand God's will for his life. It was during a visit to the Hospital for the Incurables in Naples, where he met terminally ill patients, that he felt a powerful inner call to dedicate himself to the priesthood. These encounters with suffering people touched him deeply and strengthened his desire to serve the most vulnerable.

Finally, after months of inner struggle and despite his father's initial opposition, Alphonse decided to give up his career as a lawyer to enter the seminary. In 1726, at the age of 30, he was ordained a priest. He then chose to live a life of poverty and total dedication to the Gospel, devoting his talents and energy to the service of souls and the poor.

Alphonse Liguori's childhood and education bear witness to his brilliant intelligence and spiritual sensitivity, which would become the foundations of his immense contribution to the Catholic Church. This journey, marked by a radical conversion, would lead him to become one of the great Doctors of the Church and the founder of the Congregation of the Redemptorists, dedicated to the evangelization of the most deprived.

Spiritual Conversion and Priesthood

Inner Revelation and Renunciation of the World

After his major legal defeat in 1723, Alphonse-Marie de Liguori entered a period of profound introspection. This setback, perceived as a betrayal of justice, shook his convictions about worldly life. He considered this event as a sign from Providence, inviting him to rethink the meaning of his existence. This pivotal moment pushed Alphonse to abandon his brilliant legal career and turn to God.

Transformation did not happen overnight. During this period of spiritual crisis, Alphonse spent long hours in prayer, seeking to discern the divine will. He made numerous visits to the hospitals and prisons of Naples, where he was deeply moved by the distress of the terminally ill and the poor. These encounters left a lasting impression on him, rekindling in him a burning desire to devote himself entirely to the service of the most destitute souls.

Thus, against the expectations of his family and despite the fierce opposition of his father, Alphonse took the radical decision to embrace religious life. In 1723, he officially renounced his inheritance, his titles and his promising career as a lawyer to follow a path of faith.

Entrance to the Seminary and Spiritual Formation

Determined to become a priest, Alphonse began his training at the seminary. He quickly distinguished himself by his dedication, piety and discipline. His theological studies were marked by great spiritual depth, but also by a concern to make the teachings of the Church accessible to all, including the simplest of mind. His teachers noticed in him an exceptional ability to articulate complex theological concepts with remarkable clarity.

His commitment was not limited to his studies. During his training, Alphonse was actively involved in charitable works. He devoted much of his free time to accompanying the poor, the sick and prisoners. His compassion and love for the weakest were demonstrated through concrete gestures of solidarity. This period of formation was marked by an intense desire to unite himself with the suffering Christ, particularly through meditation on the Passion of Christ.

Priestly Ordination: A New Beginning

On December 21, 1726, at the age of 30, Alphonsus was ordained a priest in the Cathedral of Naples. His ordination was a moment of great spiritual intensity, not only for him, but also for his family and the community that supported him. From his first days as a priest, Alphonsus showed himself determined to follow a path of total service and humility.

Immediately after his ordination, he chose to join the Apostolic Missions of Naples, a group of missionary priests dedicated to the evangelization of the poorest and most neglected neighborhoods of the city. His mission is clear: to bring the light of the Gospel to the most lost souls.

A Ministry Centered on Divine Mercy

Alphonsus quickly became known for his talents as a preacher. In contrast to the academic and austere sermons of the time, Alphonsus' homilies were simple, accessible, and full of compassion. He knew how to captivate the attention of his listeners, whether they were rich or poor, erudite or illiterate. His preaching focused on the infinite mercy of God, Christ's love for sinners, and the hope of salvation.

He did not hesitate to go through the streets, public squares, and even prisons to preach the Gospel. His sermons, often improvised, touched hearts deeply. Alphonse spoke of forgiveness and divine mercy with such conviction that many were converted on the spot. He insisted on the fact that God is a loving Father who always welcomes his repentant children. His message was imbued with hope, a striking contrast to the moral rigidity that characterized the clergy of his time.

Commitment to the Poor and Marginalized

Alphonsus' priestly vocation was not limited to preaching. He distinguished himself by a deep social commitment. He dedicated his days to visiting the poor in the deprived neighborhoods of Naples, distributing alms, comforting the sick and accompanying the dying. His apostolic zeal led him to become a sought-after confessor. Alphonsus spent long hours in the confessional, giving advice and encouragement, always with gentleness and compassion.

He also took care to instruct the faithful on the Christian faith through popular catechisms, aimed at educating the most deprived. He introduced new practices, such as "chapel visits," where he brings people together in local chapels for communal prayer, singing and spiritual teachings. This initiative has been a resounding success, revitalizing popular faith in the neighborhoods where he works.

Popular Missions

Convinced that evangelization must reach not only the cities, but also the rural regions often forgotten by the Church, Alphonse embarked on what he called the popular missions . Accompanied by a few confreres, he crisscrosses isolated villages to bring the word of God. These missions are marked by impassioned sermons, mass confessions, processions and community prayers. They attract large crowds and produce spectacular conversions.

Alphonse's missionary approach is innovative. He does not just preach; he listens, advises and accompanies souls. He puts into practice a theology of proximity, emphasizing the importance of being close to the people, of sharing their joys and their sufferings.

Alphonsus Liguori's spiritual conversion and his commitment to the priesthood testify to a life dedicated to the love of Christ and the service of souls. His mission was not limited to churches and sacristies, but extended to streets, homes, hospitals and prisons. By rediscovering the beauty of divine mercy, he revolutionized the pastoral theology of his time.

By his example, Alphonsus reminds us that the priesthood is above all a call to be a reflection of God's infinite love for humanity. His work, which would continue with the founding of the Redemptorists, left an indelible mark on the Church, marking minds with his message of hope, redemption and compassion.

Foundation of the Congregation of the Redemptorists

The Vision of a New Community: Preaching to the Margins of Society

After several years of priestly ministry serving the poor and marginalized in the neighborhoods of Naples, Alphonse de Liguori felt the need to structure his apostolate to reach the most isolated populations. Traveling through the countryside of southern Italy, he was struck by the spiritual abandonment in which peasants and villagers lived. These rural populations were often neglected by the local clergy, lacking spiritual resources and pastoral support.

Thus in 1732, in Scala, near Amalfi, Alphonse founded the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer , better known as Redemptorists . His vision is clear: to create a missionary community dedicated to preaching the Gospel to the most neglected souls, especially in remote rural areas. He wants his missionaries to be witnesses of divine mercy, bringing the comfort of faith to those who live on the margins of society.

The foundation of the Congregation is based on four fundamental pillars :

1. The Preaching : Redemptorists must preach a simple, clear and hopeful message, centered on the love of God and the redemption offered by Christ. Sermons must not be reserved for the elite, but accessible to all, especially the most humble.

2. The Confession : Convinced of the importance of the sacrament of reconciliation, Alphonsus placed particular emphasis on the role of missionaries as confessors. He wanted his priests to be ministers of mercy, ready to listen, advise and reconcile souls with God.

3. Parish Missions : In order to revive the faith in remote areas, the Redemptorists organize intensive parish missions, combining preaching, confessions, catechisms and processions. These missions are designed to reform local morals, encourage conversions and strengthen Christian communities.

4. Spiritual Retreats : Alphonse firmly believes in the importance of spiritual retreats for inner renewal. The Redemptorists are also responsible for organizing retreats, not only for lay people, but also for priests and religious, in order to offer them moments of spiritual renewal.

Difficult Beginnings and First Trials

The foundation of the Redemptorist Congregation was not without obstacles. From the beginning, Alphonse's work faced strong opposition, both from the ecclesiastical and civil authorities. Many local prelates viewed the arrival of this new congregation with suspicion, seeing it as competition. Moreover, the civil authorities of Naples, influenced by the Enlightenment movement, were wary of religious missions, which they saw as a return to conservatism.

In 1732, shortly after the foundation, several of Alphonse's early companions abandoned the project, discouraged by the austere living conditions and external criticism. At one point, Alphonse found himself almost alone, with only a few faithful companions. However, he did not let this get him down. With unwavering determination, he continued to preach, visit poor villages, and train new missionaries.

Official Recognition and Expansion of the Congregation

Despite the difficulties, the Congregation slowly began to grow. Alphonse's tireless efforts attracted new members, motivated by the same desire to serve abandoned souls. Little by little, the parish missions of the Redemptorists gained popularity and effectiveness, transforming entire villages with their fervent preaching.

In 1749, after years of perseverance, the Congregation received official recognition from the Pope. Benedict XIV , who approved the rules and constitutions drawn up by Alphonsus. This papal approval was a significant victory, providing the Congregation with the legitimacy and support needed to expand beyond the borders of the Kingdom of Naples.

Under Alphonsus' leadership, the Redemptorists grew rapidly. They founded new houses in Italy and began to expand into other European countries, such as Germany, France, and Spain. The Redemptorists' charism attracted many vocations, and the Congregation became a powerful instrument of evangelization.

The Spiritual and Pastoral Heritage of the Redemptorists

Alphonsus Liguori's influence on the Congregation goes far beyond his own time. He leaves the Redemptorists a rich spiritual legacy based on simplicity, mercy and God's unconditional love for every human being. He insists on the importance of pastoral proximity , encouraging its missionaries to be close to the people, to understand their suffering and to respond to their spiritual needs with compassion.

Alphonse also places particular emphasis on the moral theology , which he developed in his writings to guide confessors. He became a fervent defender of a less rigorous moral approach, closer to human realities. This balanced approach, centered on mercy and discernment, would have a lasting influence on the Catholic Church.

Today, the Redemptorists continue to follow the vision of Alphonsus Liguori. The Congregation is present in more than 80 countries around the world, with thousands of priests and religious dedicated to the mission of evangelization. Their works range from parish missions to social works, education and spiritual accompaniment, thus carrying Alphonsus’ legacy to every corner of the globe.

The founding of the Congregation of the Redemptorists is one of the most remarkable accomplishments in the life of Saint Alphonsus Liguori. Through his prophetic vision, his perseverance in the face of trials, and his unconditional love for the poor and sinners, he laid the foundations of a religious community that continues to shine throughout the world. By preaching redemption and divine mercy, the Redemptorists perpetuate the spirit of their founder, reminding all that no one is too far away to be touched by the redeeming love of Christ.

Theological and Moral Work

The Contribution to Moral Theology

Saint Alphonsus Liguori is universally recognized as one of the greatest moral theologians of the Catholic Church, so much so that he is often nicknamed "the Doctor of Morals" . His contributions in this field have left an indelible mark, particularly through his innovative approach which sought a fair balance between divine justice and mercy.

1. An Abundant and Varied Work

Throughout his life, Alphonse wrote more than 100 works on topics as varied as moral theology, piety, spirituality, Marian devotion, and Christian teaching. Among his most influential writings is his masterpiece entitled "Moral Theology" , first published in 1748. This monumental work, composed in several volumes, quickly became an indispensable guide for confessors, pastors and spiritual directors.

Alphonsus' goal was to make available a moral theology that was both faithful to the teachings of the Church and adapted to the concrete realities of the faithful. He sought to form priests capable of accompanying souls with discernment, compassion, and a deep understanding of human weaknesses. His writings are characterized by an approach pastoral , emphasizing compassionate mercy rather than a rigid application of divine law.

2. A Response to Moral Rigorism

In his time, moral theology was dominated by an approach rigorist , notably influenced by Jansenism, which emphasized the severity of moral demands and the fear of damnation. In reaction to this trend, Alphonse de Liguori developed a more balanced , advocating a ethics of mercy which takes into account human weakness and the need for divine forgiveness.

For Alphonse, God's justice is inseparable from his mercy. In his teachings, he recalls that God is a loving Father who does not seek to condemn but to save. He strives to adopt an approach more humane and understanding , emphasizing the importance of discernment in moral judgment. His theology is particularly aimed at confessors, encouraging them to be ministers of reconciliation rather than severe judges.

Moral Principles: Moderate Probabilism

One of Alphonse Liguori's most significant contributions to moral theology is his development of the "Moderate probabilism" . This doctrine, although controversial, has had a major influence on Catholic morality.

1. Understanding Moderate Probabilism

Moderate probabilism is a moral theory that lies halfway between rigorism and laxism. According to this doctrine, when a person finds himself in a situation of moral doubt—that is, when he is not certain of the moral obligation of a particular action—it is permissible to follow a probable opinion favorable to freedom, even if the opposite opinion (which would be more restrictive) seems more probable.

Alphonse argues that in situations of doubt where there is no absolute certainty about moral obligation, it is licit to follow a permissive opinion , provided that it is sufficiently probable and not simply arbitrary. This approach is based on the idea that God cannot demand from man more than his conscience enlightened by reason allows him to understand.

2. A Balance Between Freedom and Responsibility

This doctrine of Alphonse's moderate probabilism is distinguished by its character pragmatic and pastoral . It aims to free the consciences of the faithful from an excessive feeling of guilt, without falling into moral laxity. In this, Alphonse seeks to offer confessors a framework allowing them to accompany souls with a fair balance between moral rigor and the understanding of human weaknesses .

Indeed, according to Alphonse, divine moral law must be applied with discernment, taking into account the special circumstances of each individual. His moral theology does not aim to minimize the seriousness of sin, but rather to emphasize the infinite mercy of God and the possibility of redemption for all. This principle has helped to humanize the ministry of confession by making priests more attentive to the human realities of penitents.

3. Lasting Impact on Moral Theology

Although criticized by some rigorous theologians of his time, Alphonsus Liguori's moderate probabilism was widely accepted and integrated into the moral teaching of the Church. In 1871, Pope Pius IX declared Alphonsus Doctor of the Church , for his outstanding contributions to moral theology. His doctrine has had a lasting influence on Catholic moral theology, and his works continue to be references for seminaries and theological faculties.

Other Spiritual and Pastoral Contributions

Besides moral theology, Alphonse Liguori is also famous for his writings on spirituality . Among his most popular works are:

• "The Glories of Mary" : A passionate defense of Marian devotion, emphasizing the role of the Virgin Mary in the plan of salvation.
• "The Practice of the Love of Jesus Christ" : A guide to the Christian life, centered on the love of Christ and the life of prayer.
• "Visits to the Blessed Sacrament" : A series of meditations encouraging the faithful to adore the Blessed Sacrament.

These writings aim to deepen the spiritual life of Christians, encouraging them to develop a personal relationship with God through prayer, devotion and the sacraments.

Saint Alphonsus Liguori transformed the moral theology of his time by emphasizing the divine mercy , the understanding of human weaknesses , and the pastoral discernment . His balanced approach, particularly through moderate probabilism, has brought a breath of compassion and mercy into the Church, influencing generations of priests and theologians.

His legacy endures not only through his many theological and spiritual writings, but also through the continuing influence of the Congregation of the Redemptorists , which continues its mission of evangelization among the poorest and most abandoned. Through his life, his works and his teaching, Saint Alphonsus Liguori remains a model of humanity, pastoral wisdom and fidelity to the Gospel.

Marian and Spiritual Devotion

Devotion to the Virgin Mary

Saint Alphonsus Liguori is one of the most ardent defenders of the Marian devotion in the Catholic Church. His love and veneration for the Virgin Mary is exceptionally manifested in his major work, "The Glories of Mary" (1750). This book, considered a classic of Marian spirituality, has enjoyed immense success and has been translated into several languages, reaching generations of faithful throughout the world.

1. “The Glories of Mary”: A Work of Devotion

In "The Glories of Mary" , Alphonse de Liguori presents the Virgin Mary as the universal mediator between God and men. He draws on the Scriptures, tradition and the teachings of the Fathers of the Church to demonstrate that Mary plays a central role in the salvation of souls. For Alphonse, the Virgin is a Loving mother who never abandons his children, even the greatest sinners.

The book is divided into three main parts:

• The Angelic Salutation (Ave Maria) : Alphonse explains and meditates on each part of this prayer, showing how it honors Mary.
• The Sorrows of Mary : It explores the sufferings endured by the Virgin throughout her life, particularly during the Passion of Christ, thus highlighting her participation in the redemptive work.
• The Virtues of Mary : It highlights Marian virtues such as humility, purity, and obedience, encouraging the faithful to imitate them.

This work is not only a collection of praises for Mary, but also a spiritual guide intended to encourage believers to develop a personal relationship with the Mother of God. Alphonse strongly defends the idea that Mary is a refuge for sinners , an advocate and a powerful intercessor with her Son.

2. The Mediation and Intercession of Mary

Alphonse insists on the Marian mediation affirming that "God wanted all graces to pass through the hands of Mary." This conviction reflects his unwavering trust in the Virgin's ability to obtain graces for those who pray to her with faith. For him, devotion to Mary is not optional, but a necessity for every Christian seeking to grow in faith.

His teaching had a lasting impact on Marian piety, strengthening Mary's place in Catholic spirituality. Through his writings, he helped popularize practices such as the Rosary , the Scapular and the Consecration to Mary , encouraging the faithful to turn to her in all trials.

Spirituality and the Practice of Prayer

For Alphonse de Liguori, the prayer is the central element of spiritual life. He considers it not only as a religious duty, but as the key to salvation and the source of all the graces necessary for the Christian life.

1. The Primary Importance of Prayer

Alphonse wrote several treatises on prayer, the most famous being "The Great Mean of Prayer" . In this book he teaches that prayer is not only a means of communicating with God, but also a powerful weapon against temptations and sin. His famous maxim, "He who prays is saved, he who does not pray is damned" , sums up his teaching: prayer is indispensable to persevere in grace and obtain salvation.

According to Alphonse, without prayer it is impossible to remain faithful to God, because it is through prayer that one receives the strength necessary to overcome spiritual difficulties. He insists on the importance of mental prayer (meditation) as well as vocal prayer, encouraging the faithful to devote time each day to dialogue with God.

2. The Practice of Prayer in Daily Life

Alphonse encourages a life of prayer constant and fervent . He advocates practices such as:

• Daily meditation on the mysteries of Christ and the teachings of the Gospel.
• Visits to the Blessed Sacrament , an act of devotion that he popularized through his work "Visits to the Blessed Sacrament and the Blessed Virgin" . Alphonsus recommends that the faithful spend time in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament, affirming that it is a privileged means of receiving spiritual graces.
• The Act of Contrition and the Prayer of Examination of Conscience at the end of the day, to remain in a state of grace and close to God.

For him, prayer is not reserved for religious or priests, but is a universal duty for all Christians. He emphasizes that even the simplest souls can achieve great intimacy with God through sincere prayer.

3. A Spirituality Focused on the Love of Christ

Alphonse's spirituality is deeply Christocentric , centered on the love of Christ and trust in his mercy. It teaches that prayer should spring from a heart filled with love and gratitude toward Jesus, meditating especially on his Passion, as a source of comfort and spiritual transformation.

In his work "The Practice of the Love of Jesus Christ" exhorts the faithful to love God with all their heart, recognizing that love is the driving force of the entire Christian life. This love is manifested through prayer, works of charity, and personal sacrifice.

Alphonsus Liguori's Marian devotion and spirituality have profoundly marked the Catholic Church, inspiring generations of believers to intensify their prayer life and their trust in the intercession of the Virgin Mary. His vision of prayer as essential to salvation and his promotion of fervent Marian devotion helped to strengthen the spiritual life of the Church, making him a spiritual guide for souls in search of sanctification.

Her spiritual legacy, embodied in her many writings, remains a source of inspiration for the faithful throughout the world, reminding everyone that prayer and devotion to Mary are sure paths to a deep relationship with God.

Last Years and Canonization

The Final Sacrifice

The last years of the life of Saint Alphonsus Liguori were marked by deep physical suffering, but also by exemplary spiritual perseverance. Due to his advanced age, he was forced to retire to Nocera dei Pagani , where he would live out his last days surrounded by his Redemptorist brothers. From the 1770s onwards, Alphonse suffered from multiple ailments, including:

• A severe arthritis , which deforms his body and leaves him almost completely paralyzed.
• A progressive blindness , gradually depriving him of his sight.
• Crises of scruples and spiritual troubles , where he sometimes doubts his own salvation, an inner trial that he combats with prayer and faith.

Despite his declining health, Alphonse continues to to lead the Congregation of the Redemptorists through his writings and advice. At the age of 86, he was unjustly accused by some members of his order of having compromised the founding principles, which led to his being temporarily removed from the leadership of the congregation he had founded. This painful episode, known as the "Crisis of the Redemptorists" is a final test that he accepts with great humility, offering his sufferings for the good of the Church.

Until his last breath, he continued to write letters, spiritual treatises and works of theology, despite the pain and the limitations imposed by his weakened body. Alphonse de Liguori died on August 1, 1787 , at the age of 90, surrounded by his Redemptorist brothers, leaving behind an immense spiritual and theological legacy.

Canonization and Recognition

There reputation for holiness Alphonsus's knowledge spread rapidly after his death, particularly through the dissemination of his many works and the testimony of those who knew him. His writings, particularly his moral theology, continue to influence generations of priests and lay people.

1. Beatification and Canonization

• 1816 : The Pope Pius VII beatifies Alphonse Liguori, thus recognizing the holiness of his life and the impact of his writings on the Church.
• 1839 : Less than 50 years after his death, he was canonized by the Pope. Gregory XVI , thus becoming a model of Christian life for the universal Church.

2. Doctor of the Church

In 1871 , the pope Pius IX confers on Alphonse de Liguori the title of Doctor of the Church , a distinction reserved for theologians whose teachings are considered particularly important for the Catholic faith. He is thus recognized as the Doctor of Moral Theology , a title that underlines his balanced approach between moral rigor and divine mercy. His moral teaching, based on compassion and discernment, revolutionizes the practice of confession, emphasizing God's love and forgiveness.

3. Patron of Confessors and Moralists

Saint Alphonsus is also declared patron saint of confessors and moralists because of his immense contribution to Christian ethics. His works, such as "Moral Theology" remains a reference for priests, especially in the area of ​​confession and spiritual direction. Alphonsus insists on the importance of being merciful and understanding towards penitents, a teaching that contrasts with the dominant rigorism of his time.

The Spiritual Heritage of Alphonse de Liguori

Alphonse's spiritual legacy is immense:

• He is the author of more than 100 works , which have influenced not only moral theology, but also spirituality and popular devotion.
• He founded the Congregation of the Redemptorists , which continues today to work throughout the world, faithful to its mission of bringing the Gospel to the poorest and most marginalized.
• His theological approach based on divine mercy has profoundly marked the Church, influencing figures such as Saint John Paul II And Pope Francis , both of whom stressed the importance of a merciful pastoral approach.

Saint Alphonsus Liguori remains a model of humility, perseverance, and fidelity to God despite trials. His life illustrates a vocation fully lived, moving from a brilliant career as a lawyer to a priestly ministry entirely dedicated to the poor and sinners. His canonization and recognition as a Doctor of the Church testify to his lasting influence on Christian theology and spirituality.

Today, Alphonsus' teachings continue to inspire Christians around the world, inviting them to a life of fervent prayer, Marian devotion, and trust in God's infinite mercy. His feast day is celebrated on August 1st , in homage to the one who lived and taught the Gospel with an unwavering love for Christ and for humanity.

Conclusion

Saint Alphonsus Liguori is a central figure in the Catholic Church, not only for his contributions to moral theology, but also for his commitment to the poor and his deep love for the Virgin Mary. His life and work remind us that mercy, charity, and faith are essential pillars of the Christian life. His spiritual legacy remains a beacon for those seeking to live a life of authentic faith.

 

SOURCES

Tannoja, Antonio . The Life of Saint Alphonsus by Liguori . Translated from the original Italian biography by Father Antonio Tannoja,
Saint Alphonsus Liguori . The Glories of Mary . Ed. de la Source de Vie, 1750.
Saint Alphonsus Liguori . Moral Theology . Editions du Cerf, 1748.
Dumortier, Henri . Saint Alphonsus Liguori: A Master of Mercy . Éditions Médiaspaul, 2009.
Zocca, Tarcisio . Saint Alphonsus Liguori and the Redemptorists . Rome: Redemptorist Publishing, 1983.
Catholic Encyclopedia . St. Alphonsus Liguori . New York: Robert Appleton Company, 1911.
Duffy, Eamon . Saints and Sinners: A History of the Popes . Yale University Press, 1997.
Congregation of the Redemptorists . The Spiritual Writings of Saint Alphonsus Liguori .