Franois de Laval, also known as Francis Xavier de Montmorency Laval, was a French Catholic prelate who left an indelible mark on the history of New France as the Apostolic Vicar from 1658 to 1674 and the first Bishop of Quebec from 1674 to 1688. He is revered for his tireless efforts in establishing a strong Catholic presence in North America, founding the Séminaire de Québec in 1663, and dedicating his life to the spiritual growth of the French colonies.
Born on April 30, 1623, in Montigny-sur-Avre, France, Laval was the son of Hugues de Laval and Michelle de Pricard. Despite being part of the noble Montmorency family, his parents were not wealthy, and his upbringing was marked by a strong sense of piety and charity, instilled by his mother.
Recognized for his intelligence and clearsightedness, Laval was admitted to the Congregation of the Holy Virgin at a young age, a society founded by the Jesuits to inspire young people to adopt religious lifestyles. He received the tonsure and took minor orders at the age of eight, paving the way for his future in the church.
Laval's selfless dedication to his faith and his people earned him sainthood. He was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1980 and declared a saint by Pope Francis in 2014.
"The salvation of souls is the supreme law." - Franois de Laval
| 1623 | Born on April 30th in Montigny-sur-Avre, France |
| 1658 | Appointed as Apostolic Vicar of New France |
| 1663 | Founds the Séminaire de Québec |
| 1674 | Becomes the first Bishop of Quebec |
| 1688 | Retires as Bishop of Quebec due to poor health |
| 1708 | Passes away on May 6th |
Born in 1593
A 17th-century French-Canadian missionary and saint who converted many Native Americans to Christianity, and is revered for his bravery and selflessness during the Huron-Iroquois wars.
Born in 1613
A French missionary who evangelized Native Americans in 17th-century Canada, ultimately giving his life for his faith. He's revered for his martyrdom and devotion to spreading Christianity.
Born in 1610
A French-Canadian missionary and martyr who worked with Native Americans in the 17th century, known for his bravery and devotion to his faith despite facing torture and death. He was canonized as a saint in 1930.
Born in 1608
A French-American missionary and the first Catholic martyr in North America, known for his bravery and devotion to his faith, particularly among the Huron people.
