Venerable Félix de Jesús Rougier

Felix of Jesus Rougier, M.Sp.S. (December 17, 1859, Meilhaud, France — January 10, 1938, Mexico City) was a Catholic priest and founder of several institutes of consecrated life who was declared venerable in 2000. Felix Rougier was born on December 17, 1859, in Meilhaud, France. His parents were Benôit and Maria Louisa (née Olanier) Rougier. He had two brothers: Emmanuel, who was initially a missionary in Oceania but later quit the mission, and Stanislas, who distinguished himself as an untiring promoter of social action, defending farmers from their land. Initially, Rougier was thinking of becoming a doctor. However, his vision soon radically changed after meeting the bishop, Eloy, who spoke at length about the missions to over 300 students, including young Rougier. Because of this, Rougier felt a very intense desire to become a missionary, which never left him. His motto became "Love the Holy Spirit and make Him loved ..." After reflecting on his vocation as a missionary, Rougier decided to enter the Society of Mary (Marists), where he was admitted and recognized for his obedience and happy surrender to his ministry. When the day of his ordination grew near, he developed severe arthritis in his right arm. This was cause to prevent his ordination since at that time good health was a fundamental requirement for the priesthood. However, after painful testing of his condition, he was miraculously cured by John Bosco who later would say, "God will make you win many souls." Bosco was known for his ability to work extraordinary wonders in people and he did this in Rougier. Although the problem with his arm was not entirely removed, the improvement was extraordinary and the strength in his arm increased over time, ultimately saving his right arm. Finally, he was ordained as a priest on September 24, 1887. Rougier's dream was to be a missionary in Oceania, but initially his journey there was suspended due to the illness in the arm.