Philip of Agira

Saint Philip of Agira is remembered as an early Christian clergyman whose life is wrapped in venerable tradition. According to one ancient account, he was born around the year 40 in Cappadocia, in what is now Turkey, and later died a hieromartyr on May 12, 103. Another tradition places his birth in Thrace in the fourth century, to Theodosius, a Syrian father, and Augia, a noble Roman mother. After the sorrowful death of his older brothers, who drowned while fishing, Philip turned with greater fervor to the service of God. Sent by the pope to preach the Gospel in Sicily, Philip became renowned for signs of God’s mercy, especially through miracles and powerful exorcisms. For this reason he is often called the “Apostle of the Sicilians,” honored as a pioneering missionary presence on the island. He is venerated as patron of Agira in Sicily and Aci San Filippo, and devotion to him has spread beyond Sicily as well. His feast day is celebrated on May 12.