St. Philip Neri

Called the "Apostle of Rome", Philip Neri moved to the Eternal City as a young man to work as a tutor, and to evangelize people through friendship. He was ordained a diocesan priest in 1551, and started "the Oratory," hosting meetings filled with music, prayer, and religious discussion. Philip's joyfulness and laughter made him an effective missionary. Philip was so in love with Jesus that his heart was physically enlarged.

Feast Day: May 26

Patronage: Joy, Rome, U.S. Army Special Forces