Felix of Valois

Saint Felix of Valois was born in 1127 in the province of Valois in France. Moved by a desire to belong wholly to God, he renounced worldly possessions and withdrew to the forest of the Diocese of Meaux, living as a hermit in prayer and contemplation. His hidden holiness soon drew others, especially John of Matha, a learned young priest who sought Felix’s guidance. Together they embraced a bold work of mercy: founding an order dedicated to the redemption of captives. Though advanced in years, Felix traveled with John to Rome in winter and, in 1198, received the support of Pope Innocent III for what became the Order of the Holy Trinity for the Redemption of Captives, known as the Trinitarians. Felix returned to France to establish houses of the new order, aided by generous benefactors and the favor of King Philip Augustus. He died among his Trinitarian brothers at Cerfroid on November 4, 1212, and is venerated as a saint for his contemplative life and compassionate mission. He is a patron of Cinaglio and Saint-Félix. His feast day is November 4.