Devotion spread fast. St John Vianney, the Curé of Ars, loved her so much that he credited his own miracles to her, calling her “my dear little saint.” In 1835, a French laywoman, Pauline Jaricot, was cured of a serious heart condition at Philomena’s shrine, and Pope Gregory XVI soon approved her public veneration. She became known as the “Wonder-Worker.”
Historical Context
In 1961 the Church removed her feast from the liturgical calendar, because historians found almost nothing certain about who she was. That didn’t forbid devotion to her, and her shrine at Mugnano still welcomes pilgrims. Many people continue to ask for her prayers, especially young people, those in desperate situations, and those praying for children.
A Prayer to St Philomena
St Philomena, young and faithful,
we know little about your life,
but many have found a friend in you.
Pray for me in this need: (name your request).
Ask God for what is truly good for me,
and help me stay pure, brave and faithful to Jesus.
Amen.
For Young People
St Philomena, pray for teenagers and young adults
facing pressure to give up their faith.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- On 11 August, her traditional feast.
- On 4 August, St John Vianney’s feast.
- In a desperate situation.
Scripture Connection
“Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers.” — 1 Timothy 4:12
Whoever Philomena was, she was young, and generations of young Catholics have found in her an example of faithfulness.
Related prayers
For other young saints, see the St Agnes Prayer and the May 6 Prayer (St Dominic Savio). For a desperate need, the Prayer to the Blessed Mother Never Known to Fail.