St. Fidelis of Sigmaringen, priest and martyr

St. Fidelis of Sigmaringen (1577-1622) was a Capuchin friar, priest, and martyr. He was born Mark Rey in Sigmaringen, Germany, and joined the Capuchin order in 1612. Fidelis was known for his deep faith, charity, and tireless efforts to convert Protestants back to Catholicism during the Reformation. He was killed by Protestant soldiers in 1622 while preaching in Switzerland. Fidelis is venerated as a patron saint of those who are persecuted for their faith and is the patron of the Catholic press.