Written by Barb Spies, OFS, Director of Mission Services and Pastoral Care

Sometimes we remember saints because of their writings or their preaching. St. Felix of Cantalice didn’t do either of those. He is remembered for his joy and humility and for the way he trusted in God’s providence. Here, at Felician Village, we remember him especially because of the Felician Sisters having taken his name for their congregation. When you see a Felician Sister’s name in print, it will often have the letters “CSSF” after, for “Congregation of Sisters of St. Felix.” His feast day is May 18.

St. Felix was born in 1515 in Cantalice, Italy. He professed as a member of the Capuchin Franciscans. This branch of the Franciscans was new at the time. He had been a farmer, and was given the humble task of a questor, someone who seeks alms. He spent his days gathering food and donations for the friars and the poor. He carried a bag through the streets of Rome and greeted all with love and joy. He used the words “Deo gratias,” which means “Thanks be to God.” What a gift to be such a thankful person! What a model for us all.

In 1712, Pope Clement XI canonized him, making him the first Capuchin friar to be a saint. When Blessed Mary Angela Truskowska founded her congregation of sisters, they took his name as she had found in him a model of care for the poor in the streets of Rome, just as the women in her congregation cared for the poor in the streets of Warsaw. She was known for spending time praying at the altar of St. Felix in the Capuchin parish where she found support and guidance for her newly formed congregation.

St. Felix of Cantalice is a guide for all of us in how to be a saint. We don’t have to be prolific writers. We don’t have to have a following of listeners who appreciate our proclamations. We need to show gratitude and offer service, giving our thanks to God in all things.  

Blessed Angela: “Never look for self in anything but always seek the glory of God and the good of your neighbor.”