Philip Neri

Saint Philip Neri was born in Florence, Italy, on July 22, 1515, the son of a lawyer and raised in a faith-filled home. As a young man he experienced a deep conversion while living near Monte Cassino, and in 1533 he left for Rome, where his heart was captured by the city’s spiritual and human need. For many years he lived as a layman, quietly studying, praying, and seeking out the forgotten—serving the poor, the sick, pilgrims, and even those trapped in prostitution—winning souls through friendship and gentle invitation to holiness. Ordained a priest in 1551, Philip became a beloved confessor and guide, known for humility, joyful humor, and a burning love for Christ. He founded the Confraternity of the Most Holy Trinity to care for pilgrims and convalescents, and later established the Congregation of the Oratory, fostering renewal through Scripture, prayer, preaching, and sacred music. Called the “Apostle of Rome,” he helped rekindle faith during the Counter-Reformation and is honored as patron of places including Anglona and the Ospedale San Filippo Neri. His feast day is May 26.