Today is the memorial of St. Philip Neri. He was born in 1515. He went to Rome where he began working with the youth and gave himself to a truly Christian life. He founded a religious association to assist the sick and the poor. He was ordained priest in 1551, founded the Oratory which taught the spiritual exercises and works of charity. He stood out as a example of charity for his neighbors, and evangelical simplicity in service to God. He died in 1595.
I take note of all the Roman saints, as I walked the same streets many of them walked when I lived there over thirty years ago. Their churches and residences remain today. In the midst of the cacophony of the modern Roman scene, their influence can still be seen and experienced.
