Born in southern Germany in 1577, his Baptismal name was Mark Roy. 

A gifted student, he grew up with a desire to study philosophy and law which he did at the University of Freeburg where he became a teacher and a lawyer. 

In 1604, he and three friends began a six-year journey across Europe in prayer and service. 

In every town they went to they looked for ways to serve the poor, attend mass, and spend time before The Blessed Sacrament. 

When he returned home he practiced law, giving special attention to the poor. But he eventually became greatly disenchanted with the corruption he saw and made the decision to become a Capuchin Friar where he was given the name Fidelis. 

He was made the Guardian of a Friary in what is now Austria, and soon after the area was hit by an epidemic. His tireless work and prayer led to many conversions. 

Fidelis was then sent to Switzerland to preach against the Calvinists. His efforts were very successful which severely angered those who opposed him. 

After nearly being killed by a gunshot while saying mass, he was murdered by a group of gunmen while traveling. 

St. Fidelis, please pray for us.