St. Philip Benizi was born in Florence on the feast of the Assumption in 1233. He was one of the first to profess the religious life as a Servite, and in time became general of the Order. With his brethren he preached in many countries of Europe, and journeyed even into western Asia to spread the Christian Faith. In his humility he refused honors, and even the Papacy, which was offered him by the cardinals assembled in conclave. He entered into the glory of heaven in the year 1285.

It is said that when he was dying he repeatedly asked for his book, and when the infirmarian did not understand his meaning the saint made signs the he wanted his crucifix, which was the book in which he was accustomed to meditate.