Saint Felicity of Rome

Biography

Saint Felicity of Rome, also known as Felicitas, was a rich and noble widow. She was the mother of seven sons, all of whom were martyred for their faith. The names of her sons were Alexander, Felix, Januarius, Martialis, Philip, Silvanus, and Vitalis. Felicity was known for her dedication to charity and caring for the poor. She was deeply devoted to her Catholic faith and refused to worship pagan gods, even when ordered to do so by the authorities. As a result, she was arrested and faced persecution for her religious beliefs. Her sons, following in their mother's steadfast faith, were also arrested and given the same ultimatum to renounce their Christian beliefs. However, they too remained unwavering in their commitment to their faith and refused to worship false gods. Despite a series of appeals, all of which were denied, Felicity and her sons were condemned to death by Emperor Antoninus. In a heart-wrenching sequence of events, Felicity had to witness her beloved children being executed one by one. Yet, after each son's death, she was given an opportunity to renounce her faith, and each time she chose to remain faithful to God. Saint Felicity of Rome is considered a martyr for her unwavering dedication to her Catholic beliefs. She is often depicted in artworks as a woman in widow’s weeds, holding a palm of martyrdom, or as a woman with a palm, book, and children at her feet. Another representation shows her alongside Saint Andrew the Apostle or with her seven sons. Saint Felicity of Rome died a martyr's death, beheaded in the year 165 in Rome, Italy. She was buried in the cemetery of Maximus beside the Via Salaria in Rome. Today, her relics can be found in the Capuchin church at Montefiascone, Tuscany, Italy. Although she was not formally canonized by the Catholic Church, Saint Felicity of Rome is venerated as a saint pre-congregation, which means her sanctity was recognized before the formal process of canonization was established. She is revered as a patron saint against the death of children, sterility, martyrs, and for those desiring to have male children. She is also honored as a special intercessor for widows. The Abbey of Badia di Cava in Italy holds a special connection to her.