St. Felix was the third legitimate Pope to bear that name, but he is called Felix IV because of the inclusion of the antipope Felix II in many ancient listings of the Popes. He was elected through the backing of the Arian King of the Goths, Theodoric, and used his favored status to promote the interests of the Church.Felix approved the works of St. Ceasarius of Arles on grace and free will and drew up propositions regarding grace (from St. Augustine) that led to the condemnation of Semi-Pelagianism by the Second Council of Orange in 529. This heresy taught, among other things, that grace is not needed for the initiation of good works.
When the Saint was given two ancient buildings in the Roman Forum, he erected the Church of Sts. Cosmas and Damian on their site. His portrait in the apse of that Church is the earliest known likeness of any Pope. He died in 530, venerated for his simplicity, humility, and kindness to the poor.
PRAYER: God, Light and Shepherd of souls, You established St. Felix as Pope over Your Church to feed Your flock by his word and form it by his example. Help us through his intercession to keep the faith he taught by his word and follow the way he showed by his example. Amen.