Philip Neri was born in Florence in 1515 and educated by the Dominicans. He experienced conversion at the age of 18 and left for Rome where he lived a life of seclusion and poverty. He studied philosophy and theology for three years before choosing to re-evangelize Rome where Christianity had declined and was sadly in need of reform. He spent his days talking to people about God's love, and his nights in prayer.

In 1548 he helped found a confraternity of laymen to minister to needy pilgrims and this eventually led to the establishment of a now-famous Roman hospital, Santa Trinità dei Pellegrini. In 1551, his confessor insisted that Philip be ordained and, as a confessor himself, he was much sought after for his spiritual wisdom. Disciples flocked to him and he founded the congregation of the Oratorians, which was formally approved in 1575. Pope Gregory XIII gave them an ancient church in Rome which they rebuilt and occupy to this day.

Philip's sermons were famous for their wisdom and good humour. He said, "I will have no sad spirits in my house. Cheerful people are more easily led to perfection." He also had the gift of prophecy, and was credited with performing miracles. He died at the age of 80, much loved and respected, and is still known as the "Apostle of Rome."

Philip Neri is the patron of home missions, supported in Canada through the Catholic Missions In Canada (www.missioncanada.ca).©2011 Living with Christ, Novalis - Bayard Press Canada Inc., http://www.livingwithchrist.ca/. Reprinted with permission.