Saint Philomena’s life and death are shrouded in mystery. Her name means “daughter of light.” She is thought to be a young virgin martyr in her early teens who lived during the reign of the Roman Emperor Diocletian, and who died in fidelity to her vow of virginity. She was beheaded by Diocletian after multiple other execution attempts failed because of angelic rescue and divine intercession. These failed attempts included being scourged, being drowned with an anchor tied to her neck, and being shot with arrows.

The sources of knowledge about her is limited to her bones and the artifacts found in her tomb, mystical visions, strong devotion to her by other saints – most notably Saint John Vianney – and many testimonies of miracles attributed to her heavenly intercession.

Philomena was crafted from left-over twine collected over years of making knotted twine rosaries. Her colors are those of royalty – purple, red, blue, silver, and gold. The purple and red colors pay tribute to Saint Philomena’s suffering and martyrdom for purity’s sake. The blue knots link Philomena to our Blessed Mother. The gold and silver knots, as well as the red enamel accents on the crucifix and blue enamel accent on the centerpiece reflect her royal heritage.

Prayer Intentions for Philomena

Pray

Pray the Rosary using Philomena. Please pray the general prayer intentions listed above and include your own personal prayer intentions.

Check-in

Check-in that you have prayed using Philomena. Be sure to include your name, where you live, and your personal prayer intentions you prayed during your Rosary with Philomena.

Pass Philomena On

Give Philomena to someone you know who will faithfully pray a Rosary with her. This will continue Philomena’s missionary journey to spread the Gospel and resurrect true culture!