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Saint Philip the Deacon

detail of the engraving 'Saint Philip Baptizing the Eunuch of Candace' by Claude Vignon, 1638, Bibliothèque Nationale, Paris, France Also known as

Philip of Hierapolis
Philip the Evangelist

Memorial

11 October
formerly 6 June

Profile

Probably an Hellenized Jew. One of the seven Jerusalem deacons mentioned in the canonical Acts of the Apostles. Preached and performed miracles in Samaria, converting many including the magician Simon Magus. Commanded by an angel, he travelled from Jerusalem to Gaza. Converted and baptized the eunuch of Queen Candace of Ethiopia. Transported to Azotus, he preached throughout the region, finally returning to Caesarea where he lived with his four daughters, virgins with the gift of prophecy. Met with Saint Paul the Apostle on his last journey to Jerusalem. Some traditions say be became bishop of Tralles (modern Aydin, Turkey).