Philip Neri

St. Philip Neri (1515-1595) was an Italian Catholic priest and saint who founded the Congregation of the Oratory, a community of secular clergy dedicated to apostolic work. Born in Florence, he moved to Rome as a young man and became known for his joyful and humble spirit, as well as his compassion for the poor and the sick. Neri was known for his gift of prophecy and miracles, and he was renowned for his preaching and spiritual direction. He is the patron saint of Rome, the Catholic clergy, and numerous other causes, and is venerated for his contributions to the Catholic Church during the Counter-Reformation.