Blessed Felix of Nicosia was born in Nicosia, Sicily, in 1715. He joined the Capuchins when he was 28, and lived in the order for about 24 years. Having spent almost half of his life striving to grow in virtue, and follow the rule of the good friars, his time on earth was coming to an end. He received the last sacraments and then Felix asked for a blessing from his superior. But the superior would not give it… yet.

The superior wanted to test the virtue of the dying friar in an extraordinary and unusual way. He told Felix not to ask for this final blessing until the invalid was told to leave this world. This was the final test of patience and obedience for Felix - for not only was he to wait for a blessing, but for death itself. This was a severe trial for Felix because he knew what death truly is. For anyone really trying to give their lives and themselves to God, on whichever path He has chosen for them, they know for certain that death is the way to leave this sad exile and finally join God in Heaven.

At last, Felix would be able to see Jesus, Mary, the Holy Angels and Saints - All of Whom Felix had spent his life growing to know and love very much. It was a reunion he yearned with his whole soul, and he’d been expecting it to come any minute… and yet, by a unique and unusual act of God’s Will, he must wait until his good superior should order him to go and let his soul leave his body. For the saintly brother understood that it was not simply his superior but God, speaking through his superior, Who was asking this sacrifice of him.

Evening came, and the superior still had not given Felix permission to die. The physician came to check on Felix, and feel the good friar’s pulse. But he found no signs of life! However, when the doctor looked more closely, he was astounded. Despite all appearances, Felix was still alive! The doctor told the superior right away, and expressed his astonishment at the whole extraordinary affair. The superior, however, was deeply moved, and simply explained: "Of course, he is waiting for the blessing."

So, that very evening, Felix received the reward for his virtue, not only of that day, but all throughout his entire life. The superior blessed him, and then told him, at last, to go forth into the next life. Having given this command, the superior again gave his blessing - the final blessing.

Felix’s last words were two - the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary. He called out to Them, and then bowed his head and died. And all through eternity, the love he shares with Them, and They with him, will be all the more joyous and deep than it would have been had he not passed that final test of obedience, waited for the blessing, and thereby proven his love one last time.