[2] After finishing his course in rhetoric at Cahors, Regis was sent to teach grammar at several colleges: Billom (1619–22), Puy-en-Velay (1625–27), and Auch (1627–28).

Noted for an intense love of preaching and teaching the Faith, as well as the desire to save souls,[1] Regis began his study of theology at Toulouse in 1628.

Here he labored for the conversion of the Huguenots, visited hospitals, assisted the needy, withdrew from vice wayward women and girls, and preached Catholic doctrine with tireless zeal to children and the poor.

[4] Regis established the Confraternity of the Blessed Sacrament, which organized charitable collections of money and food from the wealthy.

He also established several hostels for prostitutes, and helped many become trained lace makers, which provided them with a stable income and an opportunity to avoid the threat of exploitation.

However, his boldness – perceived as arrogance in some cases – led to a conflict with certain other priests, a period of tension with the local bishop, and even threats of violence from those whose vices he condemned.

John Francis Regis is the patron saint of lacemakers, medical social workers, and illegitimate children.

[4] Parishes are dedicated to St. John Francis Regis in Arnaudville, Louisiana;[10] Hollywood, Maryland;[11] and Kansas City, Missouri.