Commonwealth _ Cardinal Kelvin Edward Felix, a towering figure in the Caribbean Catholic Church, passed away at the age of 91 on Thursday, the Solemnity of Corpus Christi, at his residence in Saint Lucia. His death marks the end of a significant chapter in the history of the Church in the West Indies.
Born in Dominica, Felix’s journey in the Catholic Church began with his ordination as a priest on April 8, 1956, for the Diocese of Roseau. His early education in the priesthood took place at seminaries in Dominica and Trinidad. Eager to further his knowledge and service, he pursued higher education in sociology and anthropology, earning a master’s degree from the University of Notre Dame in Indiana and a diploma in adult education from St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia. From 1967 to 1970, he studied sociology at the University of Bradford in England, where he also ministered to the Caribbean community in West Yorkshire. His experience in Bradford, particularly his empathy for the challenging economic conditions faced by his flock, led him to establish the Bradford Credit Union, a financial institution that continues to serve Antillean immigrants in the United Kingdom. His contributions were recognized with the Order of the British Empire from Queen Elizabeth II.
Returning to the Caribbean, Felix’s commitment to education and the Church’s mission continued to flourish. He taught at the regional seminary and was the principal of St. Mary’s Academy in Dominica. His leadership qualities were soon recognized on a larger scale when he became the associate general secretary and later the president of the Caribbean Conference of Churches.
In 1981, Pope John Paul II appointed him as the metropolitan archbishop of Castries in Saint Lucia. Felix’s tenure as archbishop was marked by his dedication to forming priests, religious, and lay leaders. He played a pivotal role in organizing Pope John Paul II’s visit to Saint Lucia in 1986, an event that significantly boosted the morale and faith of the local Catholic community. His influence extended beyond his archdiocese as he served as president of the Antilles Episcopal Conference from 1991 to 1997, guiding the bishops of the region with wisdom and compassion.
Even after his retirement in 2008, Felix’s commitment to the Church remained unwavering. He moved back to his homeland, Dominica, where he continued to assist the local Church. In 2014, Pope Francis recognized his lifelong dedication and contributions by making him a cardinal in his first consistory, a historic moment as Felix became the first cardinal from the Antilles.
In 2023, due to declining health, Cardinal Felix relocated to the Benedictine Abbey of Our Lady of the Assumption in Saint Lucia to receive medical care. Despite his frailty, his final days were filled with constant prayer for the Church and for vocations to the priesthood and religious life.
The Archdiocese of Castries announced that Cardinal Felix’s funeral will take place at the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Castries on June 12. Fulfilling his last wish, he will be buried on the grounds of the Cathedral in Dominica, a testament to his lifelong connection to his homeland.
Pope Francis, expressing his condolences to the Catholics of the West Indies, highlighted Cardinal Felix’s dedication to the education of young people and his significant contributions to the Church throughout the Caribbean. Cardinal Felix’s legacy is one of deep faith, unwavering service, and profound influence, which will continue to inspire the faithful in the Caribbean and beyond.
Cardinal Kelvin Edward Felix’s life was a testament to the power of dedication, education, and compassionate leadership. His work touched many lives, from the Caribbean to the United Kingdom, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations in the Catholic Church.
