Benevolent Society

The Benevolent Society is a Catholic Men's organization that was founded in the early years of St. Francis de Sales church for the financial help of its members in time of need. For more information on this charitable and friendly group. Learn about membership. For more information contact Mr. Wally Feld at wfeld@charter.net

The St. Francis de Sales Benevolent Society, was founded in St. Louis in 1874, more than 150 years ago. It was founded for two purposes; the primary purpose was the promotion of a religious life according to the precepts of the Catholic Church, and the other was the mutual aid of members during times of illness, and of their survivors in case of death.

The organization is the oldest benevolent society in the state of Missouri and one of the oldest in the country. Our membership virtually blankets the United States, and our members have been very active in almost all parishes in the St. Louis Archdiocese for many years.

Over the years the Society grew in numbers to a peak of over one thousand members. Currently we have a membership under five hundred. The Society has several religious activities. We presently have the following:

  • Two Mass and Communion Sundays each year (3rd Sundays of March and November) with breakfast in the Oratory basement after 8:00 am Mass.
  • Prayer gathering at the wake and funeral of a deceased member (plus Masses)
  • Annual retreat at the White House
  • Visiting sick members
  • Financial support for our members in the seminary

For many years the Society has actively supported St. Francis de Sales Parish financially and we continue that support to the St. Francis de Sales Oratory. In addition, we contribute funds to the St. Vincent de Paul Society at the Oratory and other charities. We also have helped, both physically and financially, with other needs as they have arisen.

There is a social side to our Society:

  • Golf tournament in June

The benefits of the Society for members are as follows:

  • Low age-related initiation fee (currently we are waiving up to $50)
  • Reasonable dues ($20 per year)
  • Member's death benefit of $1,800 and survivor's benefit of $120 (based on length of service)
  • Sick benefits

Membership requirements:

  • Men at least 14 years of age, and less than 65 years of age;
  • Perform their duties as Catholics;
  • Are citizens of the United States;
  • Are healthy, both physically and mentally.