Fidelis of Sigmaringen

Saint Fidelis of Sigmaringen was born in 1577 in Sigmaringen, in what is now Germany, and was baptized Mark Roy (or Rey). Gifted in mind and disciplined in heart, he studied philosophy and law at the University of Freiburg, later teaching there and earning a doctorate. Even as a student he lived with striking austerity and purity, and during years of travel as a tutor to young nobles he sought daily Mass, long prayer before the Blessed Sacrament, and generous service of the poor. Returning home, he practiced law in Alsace with such integrity and compassion that he was called the “poor man’s lawyer.” Yet, troubled by the moral dangers of his profession, he entered the Capuchin Franciscans, taking the name Fidelis, “faithful.” Ordained a priest, he became a zealous preacher and confessor, caring for the sick during an epidemic and drawing many back to God. Sent to strengthen the Catholic faith in eastern Switzerland, he knowingly embraced the risk of martyrdom. On April 24, 1622, after celebrating Mass and preaching, he was attacked near Seewis and killed for refusing to renounce the faith, forgiving his enemies as he died. He is venerated as a martyr of the Counter-Reformation and is patron of Monchiero, Montenerodomo, and the Roman Catholic Diocese of Qinzhou. His feast day is April 24.