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St. Philip Neri: The Saint of Joy and Charity
St. Philip Neri is known for his joyful spirit, charitable heart, and his deep love for God and others. He was a priest in 16th-century Rome and is remembered as a saint who radiated happiness and warmth, inspiring those around him to follow Christ with love and joy. His feast day (May 26th) is an excellent time to reflect on his vibrant spirituality and the lessons we can take from his life of joy, simplicity, and service.
Who Was St. Philip Neri?
St. Philip Neri was born in 1515 in Florence, Italy. He moved to Rome, where he devoted his life to helping others. Known for his incredible sense of humor, he made holiness approachable and inspiring. St. Philip founded the Congregation of the Oratory, a community of priests who dedicated themselves to spiritual formation and helping the poor. He was known for using laughter and personal connection to bring people closer to Christ, all while living a life of deep prayer and charity.
St. Philip’s love for God was reflected in his care for the poor, the sick, and those in need of spiritual guidance. His joyful demeanor, even in the face of difficulties, serves as a reminder that holiness can be found in every moment, and joy is an important part of our relationship with God.
Here you’ll find a video about St. Philip Neri from the Saints and Angels TV YouTube channel:
Watch the Movie: Preferisco il Paradiso
If you want to learn more about St. Philip Neri’s life, I highly recommend watching Preferisco il Paradiso (I Prefer Paradise), a movie about his life. It’s available to watch online and offers a heartfelt portrayal of his joyful, vibrant ministry and his deep connection to God. Full movie it’s on YouTube! :
Part 1:
Part 2:
How to Use This Printable:
This coloring page is a simple yet meaningful way to introduce children to St. Philip Neri’s life. Here are a few ways you can incorporate it into your home or classroom:
- Feast Day Celebration: Use it as an activity on May 26th to talk about St. Philip’s joyful spirit, his ministry, and his love for others.
- Joyful Holiness: Discuss how we can bring joy into our own lives and show God’s love through our actions and words.
- Charity and Service: Encourage children to think of ways they can serve others, just as St. Philip did, with a smile and a generous heart.
Here’s a passage to read together: Philippians 4:4-7 (Find reflection questions below the printable.)
Always be joyful, then, in the Lord; I repeat, be joyful.
Let your good sense be obvious to everybody. The Lord is near.
Never worry about anything; but tell God all your desires of every kind in prayer and petition shot through with gratitude,
and the peace of God which is beyond our understanding will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.
Download Your Free St. Philip Neri Coloring Page!
Click the link below to download and print your free St. Philip Neri coloring page:
Click here to download your PDF “St. Philip Neri: Free Printable PDF”
Reflection:
After reading and watching the video, ask the children:
- What does it mean to live with joy in our hearts?
- How can we be like St. Philip Neri and share joy with others?
- Why is it important to help others with a cheerful heart?
- St. Philip Neri was known for his love of God and others. How can we show our love for God in the way we treat others?