Philip at the Paschal Vigil

When Gordian had completed six full years as ruler of the Romans, Philip, together with his son Philip, succeeded to the throne. Report has it that he was a Christian, and that on the day of the last all-night vigil of the Pascha he wanted to share with the congregation in the prayers held in the church. But the man then presiding would not allow him to come in until he had made confession and enrolled himself among those counted as offenders, who held the place of repentance. Otherwise, if he had not done this, he would never have been received by him, because of the many charges against him. And it is said that he obeyed readily, showing in his actions a genuine and reverent disposition toward the fear of God. [a]