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Philip Neri was born in 1515 in Florence, Italy. He was such a kind and cheerful little boy that people called him “good little Philip.” He studied in Rome, a city where many people had forgotten their faith, but not Philip. One night while he was praying, the Holy Spirit filled his heart with God’s love and the joy of the Holy Spirit. He became a priest and used the gift of the Holy Spirit to help the people of Rome to grow in their faith.
Through the sacrament of Confirmation, the Holy Spirit comes to us just as it did to Philip. And like him, we are called to inspire others to do the work of God. He is the patron (May 26) of joy and the city of Rome.
Saints are real-life heroes of faith who inspire us by their virtues to become more like Christ. In the Saints and Me! series, these beautifully illustrated early-reader books tell the real stories of saints that come to life and connect with today’s children aged 4 to 9.
Barbara Yoffie has been in Catholic education for 35 years as both a primary grades classroom teacher and religion education coordinator. Currently, she is the coordinator of religious education at St. Clement of Rome Elementary School, St. Louis, MO. She is a well-known presenter on a variety of topics, including seasons of the Church year, saints, creative activities, and praying with children. Yoffie has a master’s degree in religious education administration from Loyola University, New Orleans, a bachelor’s degree in art education, and a certificate of religious studies, from Paul VI Institute, St. Louis. She is the author of several pamphlets and booklets on saints and choosing confirmation saints.
Jeff Albrecht has illustrated for Disney, Warner Bros., Marvel, DC Comics, and other entertainment companies. His animation has been seen on Cartoon Network. His Christian illustration credits include Master Books (A is for Adam, N is for Noah), Living Faith Kids, and Concordia Publishing House. He enjoys working in different styles from his studio in the St. Louis area.
