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Feast Day: June 9
Saint Philip the Apostle, also known simply as Philip, was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ and one of the Twelve Apostles. Little is known about his early life, but it is believed that he was born in Bethsaida, Palestine. Philip was initially a disciple of Saint John the Baptist, but his encounter with Jesus led him to become a convert. He was called by Jesus to be one of His apostles and played a pivotal role in bringing others to Christ. One of the most notable instances was when Philip brought Nathanael (also known as Bartholomew) to Jesus. Throughout his ministry, Philip proved to be a confidant and close companion of Jesus. While the Gospels provide limited information about his personality, various scriptural episodes suggest that he was a shy, naive, yet practical individual. After the resurrection of Jesus, Philip embarked on a mission to spread the teachings of Christ. He preached extensively in Greece and Asia Minor, sharing the message of salvation and inviting others to follow Jesus. Philip's dedication to his faith ultimately led to his martyrdom. He was stoned to death while tied to a cross around the year 80 in Hierapolis, Phrygia (near modern Pamukkale, Turkey). His steadfast love for Christ and unwavering commitment to sharing the Gospel made him a powerful witness for the faith. In art, Saint Philip is often depicted as an elderly bearded man. He is commonly depicted holding a basket of loaves and a cross, often in the shape of a "T." Another representation shows him casting a devil from the idol of Mars, emphasizing his ability to confront and overcome evil. Additionally, there are depictions of him being crucified on a tall cross, holding loaves and fishes, with a dragon nearby, with a loaf and a book, and baptizing the Ethiopian eunuch. These various representations highlight different aspects of his life and ministry. Saint Philip the Apostle is venerated as a saint in the Catholic Church. He was canonized before the formal process of canonization known as Pre-Congregation. His feast day is celebrated on various dates depending on the Christian denomination. In the Roman calendar, it is on May 3rd, while in the Anglican, Evangelical Lutheran, and Lutheran Church Missouri Synod traditions, it is on May 1st. The feast day is also observed on October 11th in the Lutheran and Episcopal Church USA, November 14th in the Greek Orthodox Church and Russia, November 17th in the Armenian Church, November 18th in the Coptic Church, and July 31st for the translation of relics in Cyprus. Saint Philip is revered as the patron saint of a few vocations and places. He is the patron saint of hat makers, hatters, and milliners. He is also the patron saint of Luxembourg, Uruguay, Philippeville in Belgium, Verlicca in Croatia, and Kamenz in Germany. In addition, there are several Italian towns and regions that consider him their patron saint, including Airole, Andora, Azzone, Campitello di Fassa, Canosa Sannita, Carovigno, Castelleone, Castiglione in Teverina, Chialamberto, Chiesa in Valmalenco, Cornaredo, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Diso, Erbezzo, Farra d’Alpago, Faver, Frascati, Gavardo, Giussano, Laveno Mombello, Monte Castello di Vibio, Monterotondo, Nemi, Piea, Predazzo, Rueglio, San Giacomo Filippo, Scarperia, Selvino, Serramezzana, Terres, Venegono Inferiore, and Zambana. Saint Philip the Apostle's legacy as a faithful and courageous follower of Christ continues to inspire countless individuals in their own spiritual journeys.