Fidelis of Mérida

Fidelis of Mérida was bishop of Mérida in Spain (Badajoz) between 560 and 571, and is honoured by several Christian confessions as one of the Holy Fathers of Mérida.

He was a young merchant of Greek origin. Visiting Mérida with Greek merchants, he met Bishop Paul of Mérida, also a Greek, and in speaking they learned that Fidelis was the son of Paul's sister, which they had not known. Fidelis chose the spiritual life, became a priest and studied theology and the sacred writings. On Paul's death he was named bishop of the city. He had the basilica of Holy Jerusalem restored, dedicated it to the Mother of God and made it the cathedral, and built the episcopal palace.

He was distinguished by almsgiving and humility. He died around the year 571 and was succeeded by Masona of Mérida, who buried him in the cathedral beside his uncle. Paul the Deacon speaks of him in the Lives of the Fathers of Mérida.