May 26

Today’s Readings: ACTS 20:17-27 PS 6810-11, 20-21  JN 17:1-11

Saints are often portrayed as solemn, almost grumpy characters.

They all took the Faith seriously. There is no doubt. But they were also people of deep, internal joy. And for many? That joy was external, as well. “Good Little Phil” was one such saint.

Even as a small boy, he was known to be cheerful and obedient. Throughout his life, he used his warmth and humor to draw people to the Lord. He was regularly found in large groups and gatherings. He treasured meaningful conversations, group study, gatherings of prayer, and loved to be wherever music was being played. Yet, he’d always eventually say, “Well, brothers, when shall we begin to do good?”

I pray our parishes have more paintings of smiling saints in the future. I pray some of them are of you.

St. Philip Neri – on this – your feast day – pray for us.

David is the Director of Faith Formation at Our Lady of Joy. If you have comments or questions, send your emails to dlins@oloj.org.

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