Saint Felix of Cantalice

Biography

Saint Felix of Cantalice, also known as the "Ass of the Capuchins" due to his humility, was born on May 18, 1515, in Cantalice, Abruzzi, Italy. He was born into a devout peasant family and began working as a shepherd and farm hand at the age of nine in Cotta Ducale. Despite his lack of formal education, Felix grew up to be a pious and prayerful individual. During his free time, Felix would have a friend read him the lives of the early Desert Fathers. Inspired by their example, he was torn between wanting to live as a hermit and fear of falling into temptation without a superior. With a desire to lead a life of greater holiness, Felix sought entrance to the Capuchin Order. Although they initially hesitated, the Capuchins eventually accepted him as a lay brother in 1543 at Anticoli, Italy, near Rome. Felix was later sent to Rome in 1547 as a questor for the community, where he resided for the remainder of his life. His reputation for holiness quickly spread, despite his inability to read. People sought his counsel on matters of spirituality and Scripture, and theologians consulted him for his insights. It is said that he possessed the gift of discernment, as sinners on the street would hide from him when it became apparent that he could see their sins and understand their hearts. Felix actively preached in the streets, fearlessly rebuking corrupt politicians and officials. He also made it his mission to exhort young men to abandon their dissolute lifestyles. In one notable incident, during the Carnival season, traditionally a time of open vice in the streets, Felix and Saint Philip Neri organized a procession of Capuchin friars straight into the midst of the revelers. Fra Lupo, a renowned Capuchin preacher, addressed the crowds, effectively ending the Carnival for that year. One of Felix's primary ministries was working with the children of Rome. Due to his inherent simplicity and lack of education, he had a childlike quality that allowed children to trust him easily. He composed simple teaching canticles and organized the children into groups, leading them in song to teach them the catechism. These canticles became well-known and popular, and wherever Felix went begging for his house, Roman citizens would invite him in to sing for them. He considered these invitations as opportunities to teach and eagerly embraced them. During the famine of 1580, the city fathers requested the assistance of the Capuchins, specifically Felix, as a fundraiser. Felix tirelessly worked towards this cause, showing great devotion and selflessness. His close friend, Saint Philip Neri, regarded Felix as the greatest saint of their time. In fact, Saint Charles Borromeo sought Saint Philip's help in drafting the constitutions of the Oblates of Saint Ambrose, and Philip suggested turning to Felix as the best advisor. Felix had a simple and austere lifestyle, sleeping very little and eating whatever came his way. He had a deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and frequently prayed the rosary. At times, he would be overwhelmed with ecstasy while praying and unable to complete his prayers. It is recorded that Felix received a vision of the Virgin Mary, during which he was allowed to hold the Christ Child in his arms. After his death on May 18, 1587, in Rome, Felix was immediately acclaimed a saint by the people of Rome. His funeral drew such a large crowd that some individuals were injured from the congestion, necessitating the creation of an additional door in the church to accommodate the exit. He was buried beneath an altar in the church of the Immaculate Conception in Rome, where miracles were reported at his tomb. Felix was beatified by Pope Urban VIII on October 1, 1625, and canonized by Pope Clement XI on May 22, 1712. He is recognized as the patron saint of Cantalice, Italy. Saint Felix of Cantalice is often portrayed in religious artwork as a Capuchin holding the Infant Jesus in his arms. He is also depicted alongside Saint Philip Neri and Saint Charles Borromeo, and sometimes depicted as a Capuchin carrying a beggar's wallet. Saint Felix of Cantalice, through his profound humility, simplicity, and devotion, remains an enduring example of holiness and inspiration for all.