St. Philip Neri, born in Florence on July 21, 1515, was a prominent Christian missionary and founder of the Congregation of the Oratory. The third of four children, he was known for his cheerful demeanor early in life. At 18, he moved to San Germano to assist a wealthy relative, but experienced a profound mystical vision that sparked his Christian conversion, prompting him to journey to Rome to serve God and His Church.
In Rome, Philip initially led a solitary, ascetic life, focusing on prayer and subsisting on minimal food. In 1535, he began studying theology and philosophy at the Sapienza and St. Augustine's monastery. Despite being recognized as a promising scholar, he chose not to pursue ordination but instead dedicated himself to helping the poor and re-evangelizing the city.
Engaging with people in public, Philip fostered conversations that encouraged a renewed way of life. With his warm personality and humor, he gathered groups for discussions, prayer, and music, often urging, "Well, brothers, when shall we begin to do good?" He directed his followers to serve in hospitals and pray together, embodying the calling of an evangelist.
In 1544, he experienced a vision of fire that filled him with divine love. By 1548, he founded the Confraternity of the Most Holy Trinity. Although he had achieved much by age 34, he was persuaded by his confessor to be ordained, and on May 23, 1551, he became a priest. Philip carried on his mission, mostly through the confessional, helping many individuals improve their lives.
He founded the Congregation of the Priests of the Oratory, officially approved by Pope Gregory XIII in 1575, to encourage others to deepen their faith. Known as the "Apostle of Rome," Philip passed away on May 26, 1595, at 80. Pope Gregory XV canonized St. Philip Neri on March 12, 1622.
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,
Pelayan Atasan Tertinggi / Most High Servant,
Yesus, Maria, Yusuf Pelayanan Kasih / Jesus, Mary, Joseph Ministry of Love
(Blessed and Saints and the Nine Choirs of Angels)
My vocation is Blessed and Saints.
"I am the most humble of all the Saints in Heaven" Mary, Mother of God."
"I am the handmaid of the Lord, said Mary ‘let what you have said be done to me."
Mother Mary is the most humble Saint in Heaven and she is also the Mother of God for us all
(Luke 1:38)
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