It's the Feast of
St. Fidelis of Sigmaringen,
3rd Class, with the color of
Red. In this episode: the meditation: "The Call of the Good Shepherd", today's news from the Church: "Who is Tearing the Tunic of Christ?” Interview with the Superior General", a preview of this week's episode of The SSPX Podcast: "Has the Mass Changed the Faith?", and today's thought from the Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre.
Have feedback or questions about the DD or our other shows?
podcast@sspx.org
Sources Used Today:
- "The Call of the Good Shepherd" — Eastertide Day by Day
- "Who is Tearing the Tunic of Christ?” Interview with the Superior General" (FSSPX.news)
- The SSPX Podcast: "Has the Mass Changed the Faith?" (SSPX Podcast)
- The Spiritual Life — Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre (Angelus Press)
Saint Fidelis of Sigmaringen was a man of both learning and zeal, a lawyer who became a Capuchin friar and gave his life for the defense of the Catholic faith. He was born in 1577 in Sigmaringen, in present-day Germany, and given the name Mark Roy. From a young age, he showed great intellectual ability and pursued studies in law, eventually becoming a respected advocate. Known for his honesty, he refused to accept unjust cases, earning a reputation for integrity and fairness.
Despite his success, Mark grew dissatisfied with worldly pursuits and felt called to a deeper life with God. He entered the Capuchin Franciscans, taking the name Fidelis, meaning “faithful.” As a friar, he embraced a life of poverty, prayer, and strict discipline. He was devoted to preaching and soon became known for his clarity, charity, and unwavering commitment to the truth.
Fidelis lived during the time of the Protestant Reformation, when many regions of Europe were divided in matters of faith. He was sent to preach in areas where the Catholic faith had been weakened or challenged. With patience and courage, he worked to instruct the faithful and to invite others back to the Church. His preaching was direct but charitable, always seeking the salvation of souls.
In Switzerland, where tensions were especially high, Fidelis continued his mission despite growing danger. He knew that his life was at risk, yet he refused to abandon his work. In 1622, after preaching in the region of Graubünden, he was confronted by a group opposed to his message. When he refused to renounce the Catholic faith, he was attacked and killed, becoming a martyr.
The Church honors Saint Fidelis of Sigmaringen as a patron of those who defend the faith, especially in times of division and conflict. His life reflects the courage required to stand firm in truth while maintaining charity toward others.
His feast day on April 24 is observed with particular devotion among the Capuchins, who remember him as a model of fidelity and missionary zeal.
In various places, he is invoked by those engaged in evangelization and by those facing opposition for their beliefs, asking for the grace to remain steadfast.
Saint Fidelis of Sigmaringen, faithful witness and servant of Christ, pray for us.
- - - - - -
- - - - - -
Explore more:
What is the SSPX Podcast?
The SSPX Podcast is produced by Angelus Press, which has as its mission the fortification of traditional Catholics so that they can defend the Faith, and reaching out to those who have not yet found Tradition.
What is the SSPX?
The main goal of the Society of Saint Pius X is to preserve the Catholic Faith in its fullness and purity, to teach its truths, and to diffuse its virtues, especially through the Roman Catholic priesthood.
Authentic spiritual life, the sacraments, and the traditional liturgy are its primary means of bringing this life of grace to souls.
Although the traditional Latin Mass is the most visible and public expression of the work of the Society, we are committed to defending Catholic Tradition in its entirety: all of Catholic doctrine and morals as the Church has always defended them. What people need is the Catholic Faith, without compromise, with all the truth and beauty which accompanies it.
https://sspx.org
