Episode 79 -- Life of St. Philip VII.79 -- Constancy and Intercessory Prayer

We read about the the death of Iacopo Marmitta, secretary to Cardinal Ricci of Montepulciano, a man of intelligence, prudence and education. He used to confess his sins several times a week to Philip, who was very fond of him, and he received Communion at the church of San Girolamo." But this devout penitent of St Philip's did not accept his final sickness with much constancy of mind or joy. St Philip was able to turn Iacopo more to the Lord. He was able to help him see what the source of true constancy of mind is: the Lord. Constancy is that special part of the virtue of fortitude that helps us stand strong in the face of external obstacles.

Last episode, we read about St Philip saving the life of his friend Delia Buscaglio when she was dying in childbirth. St Philip encouraged her to turn her life completely to Christ. He interpreted this dramatic time in her life and the loss of her child as a chance for her to draw closer to the Lord than ever before. Likewise, St Philip showed great compassion on her husband, Gasparo. Gasparo was in despair, thinking his wife had died. But after Philip saved her, he went and found Gasparo and encouraged him to comfort his wife and to keep the commandments.