Every year from August 2nd to 10th, our family comes together to pray a novena to St. Philomena, the young virgin martyr who has worked countless miracles through the ages. We’ve done this as a family for over fifteen years, and it’s become one of the spiritual highlights of our summer.
On August 11th, her feast day, we load up the van and make a pilgrimage to her shrine. It’s our tradition. We pray, we light candles, we give thanks. It’s one of those days where faith and family meet in the most beautiful way.
How It All Began
My devotion to St. Philomena began years ago, when I read about St. John Vianney’s great love for her. He called her his “little wonder-worker,” and said she never failed to answer his prayers. I figured if this humble Curé of Ars trusted her, maybe I should too.
One of my first real petitions was during a time when we were struggling financially. We had a $500 bill due, and no clear way to pay it. My wife was anxious, and I remember saying to her, “Don’t worry—St. Philomena will help us.”
That night, I began a novena to her.
The $500 Miracle
Just a few days into the novena, something unexpected happened. There was a raffle at work, and someone had entered my name without me knowing. They drew the winner—and my name was called. The prize?
$500.
Exactly what we needed. Nothing more, nothing less.
I knew it was her. St. Philomena had come through. And she hasn’t stopped since.
Why We Keep Going Back
Our family’s devotion to St. Philomena is more than tradition. It’s personal. She has answered big prayers and small ones. She has strengthened our faith and united us in trust.
We teach our children to bring their needs to her, to pray with boldness, and to thank God for His saints—those faithful souls who point us to Christ through their purity, sacrifice, and love.
If You’ve Never Prayed to Her
Start this year. Begin the novena on August 2nd. Bring her your needs. Your fears. Your impossible situations. She listens. She acts. She prays for you.
We’ve seen it firsthand—and we’ll keep returning to her, year after year.
