"Saint Philip Neri was born at Florence in 1515. He went to Rome and began to work with young men among whom he fostered Christian life and formed an association for the poor and the sick. Oradined to the priesthood in 1551, he founded the Oratory where spiritual reading, singing and works of charity were practiced. He excelled in his love of neighbour and in evangelical simplicity along with joyous service of God. Saint Philip died in 1595."
Of local interest is the mission church of St. Philip in Hymers, a small village about 30 minutes south-west of Thunder Bay. Sunday Mass is held there during the summer season for area Catholics as well as tourists and campers. A couple of photos of the church:
Merciful Father,
you continually raise up your faithful
to the glory of holiness.
In your love
kindle in us the fire of the Holy Spirit
who so filled the heart of Philip Neri.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
