St. Felix of Valois

St. Felix of Valois was a French hermit and co-founder of the Trinitarian Order, dedicated to the ransom of Christian captives. He lived a life of prayer and sacrifice before partnering with St. John of Matha to establish an order focused on freeing Christians enslaved by Muslims. He died in 1212, leaving behind a legacy of charity and devotion.

St. Felix of Valois was born around 1127 in France, possibly of noble lineage. Drawn to a life of solitude, he retreated to the forests of Cerfroid, where he lived as a hermit, dedicating himself to prayer and penance.

His life changed when he met St. John of Matha, a young priest with a divine vision to redeem Christian captives held by Muslims. Recognizing the call, Felix joined John in founding the Order of the Most Holy Trinity for the Redemption of Captives, commonly known as the Trinitarians, in 1198. This order was dedicated to freeing enslaved Christians, often using their own funds or even offering themselves in exchange for captives.

The Trinitarians gained papal approval from Pope Innocent III, and their mission flourished, leading to the liberation of thousands of Christians from captivity in North Africa and the Middle East. Felix continued his life of prayer and service, guiding the Trinitarians until his death on November 4, 1212.

After his passing, devotion to St. Felix of Valois spread widely, particularly in France and Spain. He was canonized by Pope Urban IV in 1262, and his feast day is celebrated on November 20 .

Feast Day

20-11-

Birth Date

-4-1127

Died Date

4-11-1212

Canonised Date

1-5-1262

Cerfroid, France

Saint Felix of Valois, servant of God, who devoted your life to God’s work and to the care of the poor, pray for us that we may live with faith, humility, and charity. Help us to follow Christ’s example, dedicating ourselves to the service of others. Intercede for us that we may grow in holiness and find peace in God’s will. Amen.
ST. FELIX OF VALOIS

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ST. FELIX OF VALOIS

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