St. Philip Benizi (1233-1285)

Saint Philip Benizi was known for his brilliance and holiness of life.

Born to a prominent family in Italy, among his first words were to urge his mother to give alms to the Servites. He later earned degrees in medicine and philosophy, and served the poor.

After a vision of Mary, he entered the Servites as a simple lay brother. His community recognized his gifts, and he was ordained a priest. He became superior general and preached throughout Europe as his order grew.

In 1268, upon learning he was a candidate for the vacant papacy, he fled and hid until another was selected. 

In 1283, while preaching in Forli, he was physically assaulted by a group of youths including 18-year-old Peregrine Laziosi. Philip’s meek response led the future St. Peregrine to repent and join the order. 

While traveling to Todi in his final year, he and his companions were accosted by two women driven by hunger and despair into prostitution. He offered compassion and alms, and they turned away from the sex trade. He said to his companions, “What punishment [has] Almighty God in store for those of the heartless and hypocritical rich who drive the poor into slavery like this?”