Who We Are

Who We Are

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The Missionaries of St. Francis de Sales (MSFS), also known as the Fransalians, was founded in Annecy, France on 24 October 1838 by Fr. Peter Mermier under the patronage of St. Francis de Sales. Today the MSFS is a large congregation spread over many countries in the world, rendering valuable services to the humanity by holding on to its charisma of preaching and education of the youth.



St. Francis De Sales
(Our Patron)

St. Francis de Sales is the heavenly patron of the MSFS Congregation. He was born in France in 1567. He is known as the Gentleman Saint.
He is a Doctor of the Church and the patron of journalists everywhere. As a missionary, preacher, educationalist, writer, humanist, and the Bishop of Geneva, Francis advocated universal sanctity for all categories of people. He made himself “all to all “ through his inspiring words and selfless service to fellowmen.

His books ‘ An introduction to the Devout Life’ and ‘Treatise on the Love of God, have ensured a singular position for him in French literature.
Francis died in 1622 but continues to inspire men and women by his simplicity and lucidity. Several religious Congregations have sprung up under his patronage in the Catholic Church.


Fr. Peter Marie Mermier
(Our Founder)

Fr. Peter Mary Mermier, who founded the Congregation of the Missionaries of St. Francis de Sales, was born in Savoy, France in 1790. Mermier was a man of extraordinary faith and clear vision.
Inspired by the spirit and personality of St. Francis de Sales, he founded the MSFS Congregation in 1838. The society was greatly interested in the education of the youth.
The first batch of the MSFS missionaries arrived in India in 1845. The educational apostolate has been their hallmark ever since. Fr. Mermier was called to his eternal reward on 30th September 1862.