Francis Arias

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Francis Arias (1533—15 May 1605), born and died in Seville, Spain, was a Jesuit writer of ascetical treatises.

He was received into the Society of Jesus at the age of twenty-six. He was professor of scholastic theology at Córdoba, of moral theology at Trigueros, rector of the college in the latter place and also at Cádiz.

Most of his works have been translated into various languages. His life corresponded with his teachings. He was held in the highest esteem by the great master of the spiritual life, John of Avila. St. Francis of Sales, in the Introduction to a Devout Life, recommends the perusal of his works. He was commonly regarded as a saint, and was remarkable for his gift of prayer and his spirit of penance.

Much of his time was devoted to the care of blacks, Moors, and the inmates of hospitals and prisons. From his earliest youth his predilection for spiritual things manifested itself. His career as a student in Alcalá was brilliant. While a secular priest, he laboured as an apostle in his native city of Seville.

At his death it was difficult to protect his body from the piety of the people, who proclaimed him a saint and endeavoured to secure parts of his apparel as relics.