St. Fidelis was a German priest and missionary of the Capuchin Order, martyred for his faithful defense of Catholic doctrine against heresy. He was killed by Protestants in 1622 while preaching in Switzerland, and is celebrated for his zeal and devotion to the Church.
St. Fidelis of Sigmaringen was born in 1577 in Sigmaringen, Germany, into a noble family. He was baptized with the name Mark Roy and was well-educated. He studied law and became a lawyer, but after a deep spiritual experience, he left his legal career to enter the Capuchin Order at the age of 26. Taking the name Fidelis, he became a priest and dedicated his life to serving God and spreading the Catholic faith.
St. Fidelis was known for his zeal for the faith and his commitment to fighting heresy. He was appointed to the mission field in Switzerland, where Protestantism was spreading. His strong defense of Catholic doctrine and his missionary work led him to confront heretical teachings head-on. Fidelis' efforts in preaching the true Catholic faith caused tensions with local Protestant leaders.
While preaching in Grisons, Switzerland, in 1622, St. Fidelis was attacked by a group of heretics who saw his teachings as a threat. They murdered him while he was offering Mass, striking him down with swords. Despite his martyrdom, his sacrifice was a witness to the faith, and he was widely recognized for his courage and commitment to truth.
St. Fidelis was canonized by Pope Benedict XIV in 1746, and he is honored as a martyr and defender of the Catholic faith. His feast day is celebrated on April 24.