Saint Philip Neri lived in the century when Protestantism was first raging. He founded the noted Congregation of the Oratory. He was such a clear and authoritative teacher of the Catholic Faith to simple and poor people in the streets, as well as to the highborn and noble of his day, that he is called “the second apostle of Rome.” He kept thousands of Catholics from being infected with heresy. He used to spend from twelve to fifteen hours a day in the confessional. Saint Philip Neri was noted for his radiant cheerfulness and friendliness and grace and good humor. He frequently went into an ecstasy while saying Mass. The beating of his heart for the love of God was so strong it broke two ribs in his side. He was eighty years old when he died.
Saint Philip Neri
