St. Alphonsus Liguori: A Guiding Light in Morality and Devotion

Saint Alphonsus Liguori, revered as the Doctor of Moral Theology, was an eminent figure in the Catholic Church renowned for his extensive writings on moral theology and his extraordinary devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Early Life and Education

Birth and Family

Alphonsus Maria de’ Liguori was born on September 23, 1696, in Marianella, Italy, to a wealthy and influential family. His father, Giuseppe Liguori, was a naval captain, while his mother, Anna Cavalieri, was a devout Catholic.

Education

Alphonsus displayed exceptional academic prowess from a young age. He excelled in the study of law, earning a doctorate in civil and ecclesiastical law at the University of Naples in 1713.

Conversion to the Priesthood

Disillusionment and Discernment

Despite his promising legal career, Alphonsus experienced a profound conversion experience in 1723. After losing an important case, he was deeply disillusioned by the corrupt and unjust practices prevalent in the legal profession.

Seeking solace, Alphonsus turned to prayer and spiritual reflection. He discerned a call to the priesthood, believing he could serve God and humanity more effectively in this role.

Ordination and Early Ministry

Alphonsus was ordained a priest on December 21, 1726. He dedicated himself to serving the poor and marginalized in the slums of Naples. His compassionate and zealous ministry earned him great respect and admiration from the people.

Founding the Redemptorists

Mission to the Poor and Abandoned

In 1732, Alphonsus founded the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, also known as the Redemptorists. The primary mission of the congregation was to preach to the poor and abandoned in remote and neglected areas.

Rule of Life

Alphonsus authored the Rule of Life for the Redemptorists, emphasizing humility, simplicity, and apostolic zeal. The congregation quickly grew, establishing communities throughout Italy and beyond.

Moral Theology and Spiritual Writings

Summa Theologica Moralis

Alphonsus Liguori is widely recognized as one of the greatest moral theologians of all time. His magnum opus, Summa Theologica Moralis, published in 1748, is a comprehensive treatise on moral theology that remains an authoritative source in Catholic moral teaching.

Other Notable Works

In addition to his Summa Theologica Moralis, Alphonsus wrote numerous other spiritual and theological works, including:

• The Glories of Mary
• The Practice of the Love of Jesus Christ
• The Way of Salvation
• The Hidden Treasure

Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary

Marian Advocate

Alphonsus Liguori had an ardent devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. He believed that devotion to Mary was essential for Christian perfection.

The Glories of Mary

Alphonsus’s book “The Glories of Mary” is considered one of the most comprehensive and eloquent treatises on Marian devotion ever written.

Later Years and Sainthood

Bishop of Sant’Agata de’ Goti

In 1762, Alphonsus was appointed Bishop of Sant’Agata de’ Goti in southeastern Italy. He served as bishop for thirteen years, tirelessly ministering to his flock.

Decline in Health and Death

In his later years, Alphonsus’s health declined due to severe arthritis and other ailments. He died on August 1, 1787, at the age of 90.

Canonization

Alphonsus Liguori was canonized a saint by Pope Gregory XVI in 1839. He is considered the patron saint of confessors, moral theologians, and the city of Naples.

Legacy

Doctor of Moral Theology

Saint Alphonsus Liguori’s contributions to moral theology are immense. His writings continue to guide and inspire theologians and spiritual directors worldwide.

Marian Devotion

Alphonsus’s profound devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary has left an enduring legacy in the Catholic Church. His writings and teachings on Marian devotion continue to inspire and enrich the spiritual lives of countless believers.

Founder of the Redemptorists

The Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, founded by Saint Alphonsus Liguori, remains a vibrant and active religious congregation today. The Redemptorists continue to carry out Alphonsus’s mission of preaching to the poor and abandoned in all corners of the globe.

Table: Key Dates in the Life of Saint Alphonsus Liguori

| Event | Date |
|—————–|—————|
| Birth | September 23, 1696 |
| Conversion | 1723 |
| Ordination | December 21, 1726 |
| Founding of the Redemptorists | 1732 |
| Publication of Summa Theologica Moralis | 1748 |
| Appointed Bishop of Sant’Agata de’ Goti | 1762 |
| Death | August 1, 1787 |
| Canonization | 1839