Address: 300 S. Sherman St., Denver, CO 80209

Website: https://www.sfdsparishdenver.com

Overview
The single-towered church of the patron Doctor of Charity has stood on the corner of Alameda Avenue and Sherman Street since 1911. The building became home to part of the overflowing parish of St. Joseph Redemptorist during the high-growth period of the Archdiocese when Bishop Nicholas Chrysostom Matz established 34 new parishes – and related churches and schools. The neo-Gothic design was reportedly the work of well-known Denver architect, L.A. Desjardins, and shepherded to completion by Rev. John J. Donnelly. The long-term pastor of the parish (1903-1940), Rev. Donnelly contributed much and became Monsignor Donnelly in 1935. The importance of the sacred environment is evidenced by over 25 stained glass windows in the church which were designed by the same firm as those at the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.

Special things to see in the Church
• The beautiful Munich-style stained glass windows were designed by the firm F.X. Zettler which was also responsible for the multitude of windows at the nearby Cathedral at about the same time. One can see the nearly identical image of Mary as the Immaculate Conception in both buildings. Newspaper articles describing the dedication of St. Francis de Sales refer to eight windows, but at present, five windows line either side of the nave along with five windows encircling the apse; and a large rose-window of the Nativity Scene on the western façade. The windows reflect important sacred scenes of the life of Jesus, Mary and other saints. The window of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque’s vision of the Sacred Heart and of the Holy Family in the workshop in Nazareth are particularly striking images. The inscriptions on the windows reflect the devotion of the contributors including windows dedicated to the pastors: Rev. William Morrin (third pastor) and Rev. John J. Donnelly (fourth pastor).

• The patron, St. Francis de Sales shines forth in welcome with a stone statue over the front entrance. The great Bishop of Geneva is also represented in a statue inside backed by images of Our Mother of Perpetual Help and Jesus’ Sacred Heart, and the Alpha and the Omega. The Saint holds a book inscribed with the words in Latin, “Suis scriptis caelestia doctrina refertis Ecclesiam illustravit” (“With his writings, filled with heavenly doctrine, he enlightened the Church”). He is the author of numerous books and delivered over 500 epistles. He provides instruction to lay Christians in his most famous work, “Introduction to a Devout Life”.

Interesting Fact About the Church
There are reportedly over one-hundred churches across the world dedicated to St. Francis de Sales (1567-1622). His life was an exemplary demonstration of the principles that he lived by which were fashioned around Jesus’ call, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves” (Mt 11:29). He is known as the “Doctor of Charity” who served the poor and the sick, as well as converted many Calvinists in the area of Geneva, Switzerland where he served as Bishop (1602 – 1622). When considered for appointment as a cardinal in 1604, he humbly declined stating that great titles “might raise fresh obstacles to his salvation.” Around 1618, he founded the Order of the Sisters of the Visitation along with St. Jane de Chantal. St. Francis’ was an ideal leader in the times of the Counter-Reformation with his emphasis on humility – yet filled with joy – he at one time said, “Oh! it is good to live, to labor, to rejoice only in God.” Many miracles were attributed to his intercession and he was canonized by Pope Alexander VII in 1665 and made a Doctor of the Church in 1877. His feast day is now celebrated on January 24th.

Quotes of St. Francis de Sales:

“The same everlasting Father who cares for you today, will care for you tomorrow and everyday…He will either shield you from suffering, or give you unfailing strength to bear it…be at peace and put aside all anxious thoughts…”
“The person who possesses Christian meekness, is affectionate and tender towards everyone; and is disposed to forgive and excuse the frailties of others.”
“The truth must always be charitable for bitter zeal does harm instead of good.”
“The most powerful remedy against sudden starts of impatience is a sweet and amiable silence.”