The Saints: St. Philip the Deacon

c. First century / Feast - June 6

Philip is among the first deacons named in the Acts of the Apostles (6:1-7). After the Hellenists complained that “their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution,” the Twelve Apostles gathered the community, saying, “It is not right for us to neglect the word of God to serve at table.”

Philip was among those chosen to assist them: “seven reputable men, filled with the Spirit and wisdom.”

Philip also evangelized, baptizing the magician Simon in Samaria and an Ethiopian official on the road to Gaza (Acts 8:4-40).