Confessor; apostle of Rome; founder of the Oratory; born Florence, 1515; died Rome, 1595. He engaged in commercial activity at Monte Cassino, 1534-1551, but abandoned it to go to Rome, where he distinguished himself by his erudition. Foregoing his worldly interests, he devoted himself to the care of the poor and sick. Ordained priest in 1551, he founded the Congregation of the Oratory, approbation of which was granted by Pope Gregory XIII, 1575. It spread rapidly through Italy and Philip was elected superior general. His life was remarkable for singular devotion to the Blessed Sacrament. Patron of Rome. Emblems: altar, chasuble, and vial. Canonized, 1622. Body in a shrine in Chiesa Nuova. Feast, Roman Calendar, May 26,.