Philip Neri

"A joyful heart is more easily made perfect than a downcast one."

Think you have to be dour and remove yourself from this world to be saintly? Learn about the example of St. Philip Neri, whose feast day is today! Living in Italy during the 16th Century, Philip witnessed the Reformation and later influenced the Council of Trent with the resulting Catholic Reformation. He ministered by sharing daily life, regular life, with people, and helping them see the opportunities within themselves for positive transformation.
Nourished by an intense prayer life, he just as intensely participated in the joys and sorrows of the people, rich and poor, of his community. He eventually founded a new religious order, the Oratorians, named for the custom of daily prayer, songs and talks (orations).

Philip Neri, pray for us!