25/05/2026
Born in Florence, Italy, in 1515. He went to Rome to study and supported himself at the university by tutoring young students. He spent his free time praying in the churches and in catacombs. While praying, Philip suddenly knew what God wanted him to do with his life.
He began to work among the poor and the sick of Rome. His work led him to the decision to become a priest. After ordination in 1551, he talked about his ministry whenever he met someone new and urged people to join him. He then founded the Oratory, a community of men who gathered together under Philip’s leadership to pray, sing, and discuss their faith. He stressed the importance of joy in the life of a disciple of Christ.
Some people call Philip the “saint maker” because so many men who later became saints came to Philip seeking advice and direction for living their faith. (some are, St. Ignatius of Loyola, St. Francis de Sales, St. Charles Borremeo, and St. Francis Xavier, even popes and bishops) came to the Oratory to seek Philip’s advice.
He always kept his sense of humor. He was able to achieve and build so many relationships because his ministry was characterized by joy and humility.
His message was, “Don’t take yourself too seriously.”
Philip died in 1595, when he was an old man, leaving the Church a lasting legacy.His life teaches us to be optimistic and hopeful that God has given us Good News in Jesus and that we are called to share that Good News with love and joy.
From My Morning Prayer