07/17/2026
Today, July 17, our Alexian Brother communities celebrate the Feast of St. Alexius, patron of the Alexian Brothers. On this special feast day Brother Terrence renewed his temporary vows!
According to ancient Christian tradition, St. Alexius was born into a wealthy Roman family but felt called to leave behind privilege, status, and comfort in order to follow Christ more completely. He gave his possessions to the poor and lived for many years as a pilgrim and beggar, devoting himself to prayer, penance, and service.
Tradition holds that Alexius eventually returned to his family home, where he lived in humility and remained unrecognized for many years. He accepted poverty, misunderstanding, and suffering without seeking praise or recognition. Only after his death was his identity discovered.
His life became a powerful witness to humility, and hidden service. These same virtues later inspired the early Alexian Brothers, who cared for the sick, buried the dead, and served those abandoned during times of plague and suffering.
Through the intercession of St. Alexius, may we learn to recognize Christ in the poor, the sick, and the forgotten, and may we answer God’s call with courage and humility.
St. Alexius, pray for us.
