St. Philip Neri

The Apostle of Rome, whose heart was physically enlarged by the Holy Spirit and whose jokes converted a city.

The story

A layman for years, Philip evangelized Rome's streets and banks with the question, "Well, brothers, when shall we begin to do good?" Praying in the catacombs on Pentecost 1544, he felt a globe of fire enter his heart, which was found at his death to have broken two ribs. Ordained at thirty-six, he founded the Oratory, heard confessions all day, and used humor and humiliations to form saints.

What Philip teaches

A joyful heart is more easily made perfect than a downcast one. Cheerfulness is a spiritual weapon.

Patronage

Rome, joy, humor.

Prayer

St. Philip Neri, fill our hearts with the fire of the Holy Spirit and the joy that draws others to Christ. Amen.