Father Philip, C.P. 0n Saturday, 2nd October, the Community of St. Joseph’s, Highgate, paid the last sad tribute to the memory of Fr. Philip of the Immaculate Conception. The beautiful church was filled with worshippers – his friends from all parts of London and many priests from the neighbouring churches, who, although sad at their loss, still rejoiced to think that he who had so long and faithfully laboured for his Master, had at last received his reward. Born at Tallow, Co. Waterford, Ireland, in April, 1852, Fr. Philip entered the Passionist Congregation some twenty-eight years later. He was elected Rector of St. Joseph’s, Highgate, in 1893, and three years later, Rector of Mount Argus, Dublin. He became Provincial of this Province in 1899, which office he held until 1908 when he was elected first Provincial Consultor. From 1911 until his death he held successively the offices of Provincial, First Provincial Consultor and Provincial Secretary. In 1914 he was considered for the high position of General of the Congregation, but at his own request his name was withdrawn. Fr. Philip, was a deep student of Holy Scripture, and his mastery of Oriental languages enabled him to appreciate its hidden beauties. The success of his two publications, one on the Sacred Passion and the other on the Parables of Our Divine Lord, encouraged him to pursue his literary labours and he submitted to the publisher the final proofs of his “Life of St. Paul, the Apostle” a short time before his death. Although a man of deep learning he was as simple as a child. By some he was considered stern and forbidding, but this manner was merely the cloak for a shyness and reserve, so often found in a “man of books.” Fr. Philip was a true son of the Passionist Congregation and his best endeavour was freely given to promote its interests. His last illness was short. During his stay in September in our Retreat at Herne Bay signs of heart trouble manifested themselves, and on his return to Highgate his condition rapidly grew worse. He received the Last Sacraments with edifying devotion on Sunday, 26th September, and died peacefully on the morning of the 30th at the age of 68, and in the 35th year of his priesthood. (Cross, Vol. XI, 1920-21; p. 232.)