The Story of Saint Philomena

Saint Philomena is honored as a virgin and martyr. St. Thomas More Priory's account of her life connects devotion to her with purity, fidelity to Christ, and confidence in God's providence. These virtues give her story particular significance for young people and families.

The discovery of her relics

The priory recounts the discovery of her tomb in Rome in 1802. Its symbols included a palm, an anchor, arrows, and a lily, associated with martyrdom and virginity. Devotion grew through reports of her intercession, including the recovery of Pauline Jaricot after visiting her shrine at Mugnano.

History and devotional tradition

The same account distinguishes the discovery of the tomb from the later devotional narratives received through private revelations. Read these as devotional testimony rather than as a contemporary written biography. The priory presents Saint Philomena's example as an invitation to prayer and reliance on God.

Devotion at our shrine

Learn about the shrine through our patronesses, and pray the Litany of Saint Philomena.

Source and further reading: Life of Saint Philomena — St. Thomas More Priory.