Feast of St. Alphonsus Liguori
Today we celebrate the Feast of Saint Alphonsus Maria de Liguori (1696–1787), founder of the Redemptorists and a Doctor of the Church. Saint Alphonsus was an Italian Catholic bishop, theologian, and founder of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, commonly known as the Redemptorists. Born in Marianella, near Naples, Alphonsus was the eldest of seven children in a noble family. He was a gifted child, earning a doctorate in civil and canon law by the age of 16. Despite his success in law, he felt called to the priesthood and was ordained in 1726.
Alphonsus became known for his compassionate pastoral work, particularly among the poor and neglected. He was a prolific writer, producing numerous works on moral theology, spirituality, and devotion. His most famous work, “The Glories of Mary,” reflects his deep Marian devotion. As a preacher and confessor, he emphasized God’s mercy and the importance of prayer, earning him widespread respect.
In 1732, Alphonsus founded the Redemptorists, an order dedicated to preaching and missionary work, especially among the poor and rural populations. He served as bishop of Sant’Agata de’ Goti, where he continued his mission of helping the marginalized. Alphonsus was canonized in 1839 and declared a Doctor of the Church in 1871 for his contributions to moral theology and his emphasis on the practical aspects of the Christian life. His feast day is celebrated on August 1.
Learn More about St. Alphonsus
As we celebrate St. Alphonsus’s feast day, we invite you to learn more about St. Alphonsus and his many spiritual works, and to reflect on and benefit from the enduring legacy which God has granted to our Congregation through St. Alphonsus. This Doctor of the Church has bequeathed us a charism which is ever-relevant. It is a charism which still inspires and motivates young people to join us in many parts of the world. It is a charism that unites all Redemptorists in solidarity together with our associate religious Sister Congregations and lay partners in the Mission.
You can also download here a Novena to St. Alphonsus Liguori.