On 13 August, we have the joy of celebrating the feast day of Saint Philomena, a young virgin and martyr whose unwavering faith continues to inspire countless faithful around the world. Known as the “Wonder-Worker,” Saint Philomena’s powerful intercession has been credited with numerous miracles, making her a beloved saint in the Church.
Who is Saint Philomena?
Saint Philomena was a Greek princess who lived in the early days of Christianity. Her story, though largely passed down through tradition, is one of profound faith and courage. At a young age, she made a vow of virginity to Christ. When the Roman Emperor Diocletian sought her hand in marriage, she refused, choosing to remain true to her promise. Her refusal led to severe persecution, but she remained steadfast in her love for Christ. After enduring numerous tortures, she was martyred at the tender age of 13.
Her relics were discovered in the catacombs of Rome in 1802, and since then, devotion to her has spread rapidly. Saint Philomena has become known for her powerful intercession, particularly for those seeking healing, purity, and strength in their trials.
Ideas for Celebrating Saint Philomena’s Feast Day at Home
Celebrating the feast day of Saint Philomena at home is a beautiful way to honor this young saint and to teach your children about the virtues of faith, purity, and courage. Here are some ideas for your family:
1. Create a Saint Philomena Prayer Space
Set up a small prayer space or altar in your home dedicated to Saint Philomena. Include a statue or image of the saint, a candle, and flowers. This space can serve as a focal point for your family’s prayers throughout the day.
2. Pray the Chaplet of Saint Philomena
The Chaplet of Saint Philomena is a powerful devotion that consists of 13 small beads and three large ones. Gather as a family to pray this chaplet, asking for her intercession in your needs. Reflect on her virtues of faith, hope, and love as you pray.
3. Read the Story of Saint Philomena
Spend time as a family reading or sharing the story of Saint Philomena. If you have young children, you might choose a simplified version of her life that highlights her courage and love for Jesus. For older children, discussing the historical context of her life and martyrdom can deepen their understanding.
4. Create a Craft or Artwork
Engage your children in a creative activity that honors Saint Philomena. You could make a crown of flowers, symbolic of her purity and martyrdom, or draw a picture of her with the symbols of her martyrdom, such as an anchor or arrows.
5. Bake a Special Treat
Celebrate the day with a special treat, such as a cake or cookies decorated in red and white, representing martyrdom and purity. As you bake together, discuss the importance of Saint Philomena’s virtues and how your family can live them out.
6. Acts of Service
In honor of Saint Philomena’s dedication to Christ, consider doing acts of service as a family. Whether it’s helping a neighbor, donating to a charity, or simply showing kindness to one another, these acts are a beautiful way to live out the Gospel in your daily life.
7. Attend Mass or Pray a Family Rosary
If possible, attend Mass together to celebrate the feast day. If Mass isn’t an option, gather to pray a family Rosary, offering it for the intentions of your family and asking Saint Philomena to guide and protect you.
One POPCS Family’s Devotion
The Adams-Young clan takes the “feast” part of Feast Days very seriously, and celebrated St. Philomena’s Feast Day with a Greek dinner. While little is known about Philomena, patron saint of babies, children, and mothers, it is believed she was born in Corfu. Amelia Young, who is a 4th grader at POP, made orzo, Viktor and Kolbe Adams, K5, helped their mother Carrie make the marinade for the chicken, and Isla Young, the family’s oldest child who is a 7th grader this year, acted as sous chef, while their father Dave Young was the grill master. Fresh figs, Athena melon, and olives were served up as well.
The family closed out St. Philomena’s Feast Day by saying a rosary gathered around their statue of Mary, which will soon leave the living room and take up permanent residence in a garden being made for her.
Carrie’s devotion to St. Philomena began with the twins’ stay in the NICU, asking for her intercession several times daily. The boys were born at 33 and a half weeks, and surprised doctors by quickly gaining weight and coming home only two weeks later, having suffered no complications along the way.
Four years later, Isla dressed as St. Philomena, who is often depicted wearing a floral crown, for her first year celebrating All Saints Day at POPCS. The family decorated with fresh flowers in honor of St. Philomena.
Leading up to St. Philomena’s Feast Day, Dave and Carrie have said a novena asking for St. Philomena’s intercession and protection for all four of their children, that this year at POPCS will be both happy and fruitful.
Conclusion
Saint Philomena’s life is a testament to the power of faith, purity, and courage. As you celebrate her feast day on August 13th, may your family grow closer to Christ, inspired by the example of this young and mighty saint. Through her intercession, may you experience the peace and strength that only God can give.