Early Life and Background

Felice was born Filippo Giacomo Amoroso on November 5, 1715, in Nicosia, a small town located in the province of Enna, Sicily, Italy. The Amoroso family was modest and deeply religious, instilling in young Filippo a sense of piety and a love for the Church. His father, Carmelo Amoroso, was a shoemaker, and his mother, Arcangela Lo Valvo, raised him in the faith, nurturing virtues that would later define his saintly character.

From an early age, Felice was known for his gentle disposition and inclination toward prayer. He frequented the Capuchin friary in Nicosia, drawn by the community's simplicity and devotion. Despite his humble origins and lack of formal education, Felice displayed profound spiritual wisdom, which did not go unnoticed by those around him.

Calling to Religious Life

At the age of 19, Filippo sought to join the Capuchin Friars Minor, a reform branch of the Franciscan Order known for its emphasis on poverty and strict adherence to the Rule of Saint Francis. However, his desire met initial disappointment; for eight years, his repeated petitions were declined, mainly due to his frail health and lack of education. Yet, Felice’s perseverance, humility, and unwavering faith eventually won over the community.

In 1743, at the age of 28, Filippo was finally admitted to the Capuchin novitiate in Mistretta, Sicily, and received the religious name Felice (Felix). He spent a year in formation and made his profession of vows, becoming a lay brother. Unlike choir friars, lay brothers were not ordained but dedicated themselves to the practical and menial work within the monastery.

Life as a Capuchin Friar

Felice was assigned to various Capuchin communities in Sicily but spent the majority of his religious life at the friary in Nicosia, his hometown. There, he served as the questor, responsible for seeking alms and provisions for the friars. This humble position became the vehicle for his sanctity.

His daily rounds through the town and countryside were marked by acts of kindness, prayers, and spiritual counsel. Felice’s cheerful demeanor, even in the face of adversity, endeared him to all, from the poorest peasants to wealthy aristocrats. He never asked for himself but for the needs of the friars and the poor. He was known to say, “Let us bless the Lord, and do good to all,” embodying his Franciscan vocation.

Felice lived a life of strict asceticism, fasting, and mortification. He slept only a few hours each night, often on bare boards, and spent much of his time in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. He accepted humiliations and hardships with patience and joy, seeing in them the means to grow closer to God.

Spiritual Gifts and Miracles

Saint Felice of Nicosia was widely believed to possess spiritual gifts, including the ability to read hearts, heal the sick, and console the afflicted. Numerous miracles were attributed to his intercession both during his life and after his death.

Eyewitnesses recounted Felice’s compassion and supernatural insight when visiting the sick and destitute. He often brought not only material assistance but also spiritual comfort. Many claimed to have experienced miraculous recoveries after Felice’s visits and prayers. His reputation for holiness spread far beyond Nicosia, and people from neighboring towns sought his blessing and counsel.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Felice’s spirituality was his unwavering obedience. He accepted with docility even the most difficult assignments and corrections, and he humbly submitted to the will of his superiors, seeing in their authority the voice of God.

Final Illness and Death

Felice continued his charitable and penitential life into old age, despite increasing physical weakness. In May 1787, he contracted pneumonia, possibly exacerbated by his austere lifestyle and the rigors of his daily quest for alms. He bore his final illness with the same patience and faith that had characterized his life.

On May 31, 1787, surrounded by his Capuchin brothers, Felice of Nicosia died at the age of 71. His last words reportedly were: “Let us bless the Lord, and do good to all.” The people of Nicosia, deeply moved by his passing, immediately began venerating him as a saint.

Canonization and Veneration

The process for Felice’s canonization began soon after his death, owing to the numerous miracles attributed to his intercession and his widespread reputation for holiness.

Hundreds of pilgrims continue to visit his tomb in Nicosia, seeking solace and healing.

Saint Felice of Nicosia, pray for us!