Saint Philomena

Saint Philomena was an early Christian virgin martyr who was almost lost to history. Her tomb was discovered in the catacombs of Priscilla in 1802, and her remains were moved into a small chapel in Mugnano, Naples (modern day Italy). Afterward, a great variety of miracles occurred whenever she was invoked: the ill became firm, the blind gained eyesight, and children who fell great distances jumped back on their feet without any injuries.

What we know about St. Philomena’s life on Earth comes from three visions by three independent people who did not know each other. She was a Grecian princess who refused to marry the Roman emperor Diocletian, honoring instead her vow of virginity to Jesus Christ. She was tortured in several horrible ways (during which she healed miraculously only to be tortured again), until at last she was pierced in the neck with a lance until she bled to death. She was 13 years old when she was martyred.

Surprisingly, there is no record of her in the Roman martyrology, which made her status controversial for a time. Nevertheless, every scientific study into her tomb and her remains continues to vindicate her authenticity. She is truly a saint saved for our modern era.

Devotions

The chaplet

The chaplet of St. Philomena is a way of honoring the saint and asking for her intercession.

The cord

The cord of St. Philomena is a cincture worn around the waist (usually under the over-garment) and protects against temporal and spiritual dangers, especially those against chastity.

Novena prayers

How to get the Saint’s attention and ask for her intercession

Consecration formula

Consecration to Saint Philomena as Chosen Patroness

More information

Book: The Life and Miracles of Saint Philomena, Virgin and Martyr (Archive.org)

This is one of the original books from the 1800s, translated into English. It contains her story, an account of miracles, and several devotions to St. Philomena. This book is also in the process of being republished by yours truly.

St. Philomena on Catholictradition.org (3rd party)

Lots of prayers, stories, and pretty pictures.

About St. Philomena, Patroness and Protectress of the Living Rosary (3rd party)

A large web page about the history of St. Philomena, published by the Living Rosary Association. (They also have a good collection of Holy Cards.)