Saint Philip Neri

St. Philip Neri was a Christian missionary and founder of the Congregation of the Oratory. Born in Florence on July 21, 1515, he was one of four children and was known for his cheerful nature from a young age. At 18, he moved to San Germano to assist a wealthy relative but experienced a mystical vision that marked his Christian conversion. This profound encounter led him to lose interest in business and property, prompting him to travel to Rome to serve the Lord and His Church.

During his first two years in Rome, Philip led a solitary and ascetic life, dedicating much time to prayer and subsisting on small meals of bread, water, and vegetables. In 1535, he began studying theology and philosophy at the Sapienza and St. Augustine's monastery. Although he was seen as a promising scholar, he ultimately decided not to pursue ordination and instead focused on helping the poor and re-evangelizing a city that had lost its Christian values.

Philip engaged with people in public spaces, fostering conversations that encouraged a new way of life. Known for his warm personality and humor, he gathered groups for discussions, prayer, and music, often asking, "Well, brothers, when shall we begin to do good?" He directed his followers to serve at hospitals and pray in the church, living as an evangelist who loved sharing the Gospel.

His days were for helping others, while nights were reserved for solitary prayer. In 1544, on Pentecost, he experienced a vision of fire that filled him with divine love. In 1548, he founded the Confraternity of the Most Holy Trinity with the help of his confessor, Father Persiano Rossa. Philip's charm and kindness earned him friendships with notable figures, including Ignatius of Loyola and Charles Borromeo.

At 34 years old, Philip had already accomplished so much, but his confessor was determined that his work would be more effective as a priest. Finally convinced, Philip was ordained to the diaconate and then to the priesthood on May 23, 1551. Philip lived with Father Rossa and other priests at San Girolamo, focusing his mission primarily through the confessional. He spent hours listening to people of all ages and often engaged in informal discussions to help them improve their lives. As the number of pilgrims grew, a larger room was built above the church, and Philip and the priests became known as the "Oratorians," ringing a bell to call the faithful to their "oratory."

Years later, the Congregation of the Priests of the Oratory was established, encouraging deeper faith without binding members to vows or renouncing property. Pope Gregory XIII officially approved the Congregation in 1575. Beloved in Rome, Philip was a trusted advisor to many, advocating for reform in the Catholic Church with kindness rather than criticism. He earned the title "Apostle of Rome." On May 25, 1595, he learned of his poor health but stated, "Last of all, we must die." He passed away on May 26, 1595, at 80 years old. Beatified by Pope Paul V in 1615 and canonized by Pope Gregory XV in 1622, he is the patron saint of Rome, US Special Forces, humor, and joy.

St. Philip Neri, you preached the Gospel with courage and perseverance; obtain for us a fiery zeal for the Kingdom of God.

Jonathan Fabian Ginunggil,

Most High Servant,

Jesus, Mary, Joseph Ministry of Love (Blessed and Saints and the Nine Choirs of Angels)