May 18
Saint Felix of Cantalice
Religious, 1515 - 1587
Felix Porri was born in the year 1515, in Cantalice, Italy. He received the habit of the Capuchin Friars in 1543. For forty years he served as quaestor in the city of Rome, giving a wonderful example of simplicity, innocence and charity. In continual prayer and humble joy he walked the streets of Rome helping the sick and the poor. He was called “Friar Deo Gratias” because of his custom of greeting the people with these words. Felix's was so successful in his work that during the famine of 1580, the political leader of Rome asked the Capuchins if they would 'lend' Felix to them so he could collect food and provisions for the entire city. The Capuchins agreed and Felix embraced his new task. He died in Rome in 1587, endowed with extraordinary gifts from God.
He was beatified by Urban VIII on the October 1, 1625 and was canonized by Pope Clement XI on May 22, 1712.
Prayer
Almighty God, you gave Saint Felix to the Seraphic Family and to the Church as an example of evangelical simplicity and innocence of life. Following his example, may we strive to love and joyfully follow Christ alone, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.