Saint Philomena: Patron Saint of Infants, Youth, and Victims of Torture

Saint Philomena is a well-known and highly venerated saint in the Roman Catholic Church. She is the patron saint of infants, youth, and victims of torture.

According to legend, Philomena was a young Roman Christian girl of noble birth who was martyred in the 3rd century. Her father, a high-ranking Roman official, had promised her in marriage to the son of the Emperor Diocletian. When she refused to marry him, the Emperor had her tortured and martyred.

In 1802, a tomb was unearthed near the town of Mugnano, Italy. Inside the tomb were three glass urns containing bones, each with an inscription in Greek that read “Peace be with you, Philomena.” The bones were assumed to belong to a young Christian woman who had been martyred during the Roman persecutions of the 3rd century. In 1805, the Church officially recognized the tomb of Saint Philomena and declared her a saint. Her canonization date is August 10th, 1837.

Saint Philomena is a popular saint with a long history of devotion. She is often depicted with a palm branch, a lily, an anchor, arrows, and chains. These symbols represent her martyrdom and her purity. Many miracles have been attributed to Saint Philomena’s intercession. She has been credited with healing the sick, restoring sight to the blind, and restoring life to the dead.

In addition to her feast day, August 11th, there are two other important dates associated with St. Philomena. Her birthday is celebrated on January 10th, and the anniversary of her martyrdom is commemorated on August 11th.

Saint Philomena is a beloved saint who has inspired devotion and veneration for centuries. Her story of courage and faith in the face of terrible persecution continues to inspire people around the world.