Saint Philomena Nine Day Novena | Patron Saint of Impossible Causes

Before we get into her simple and easy to pray nine day Novena, I would first like to share some information and history about Saint Philomena.

Saint Philomena: Patron Saint of Impossible Causes

Saint Philomena is a figure venerated in the Catholic Church as a virgin martyr, believed to have lived and died in the early Christian era, around the late 3rd or early 4th century. Her story is unusual because little historical documentation exists about her life, and much of what is known comes from a combination of archaeological findings and private revelations rather than traditional historical records.

Her remains were discovered on May 24–25, 1802, in the Catacomb of Priscilla in Rome. The tomb was sealed with three terracotta tiles inscribed with the Latin phrase “Pax Tecum Filumena,” meaning “Peace be with you, Philomena,” which identified her name. Alongside the inscription were symbols—two anchors, three arrows, a palm branch, and a lily—commonly interpreted as signs of martyrdom and virginity. A small glass vial containing what appeared to be dried blood was also found near her remains, reinforcing the belief that she was a martyr, as early Christians often preserved such relics.

Beyond these findings, no contemporary records of Philomena’s life exist, leaving her historical identity shrouded in mystery. However, in 1833, a Neapolitan nun named Sister Maria Luisa di Gesù claimed to receive a vision in which Philomena revealed her story. According to this vision, Philomena was a Greek princess, the daughter of a king who, along with his wife, converted to Christianity after being childless and praying for a child. At around age 13, Philomena took a vow of virginity to dedicate herself to God. During a trip to Rome with her family to negotiate peace with Emperor Diocletian (who reigned from 284 to 305), the emperor became enamored with her and demanded her hand in marriage. When she refused, citing her consecration to Christ, Diocletian subjected her to a series of tortures—scourging, drowning with an anchor, and being shot with arrows—all of which she miraculously survived with divine intervention until she was finally beheaded. The vision stated her martyrdom occurred on August 10, around 304, at three in the afternoon, drawing a parallel to Christ’s death.

Philomena’s relics were transferred to Mugnano del Cardinale, Italy, in 1805, where they became a focal point of devotion. Numerous miracles were attributed to her intercession, including the healing of Pauline Jaricot in 1835, which gained widespread attention. Her popularity grew rapidly, earning her the title “The Wonderworker.” Several popes, including Leo XII, Gregory XVI, Pius IX, Leo XIII, and Pius X, supported devotion to her, granting liturgical honors such as altars, Masses, and confraternities in her name. Saints like John Vianney, who called her his “dear little saint,” and Padre Pio also promoted her following, attributing miracles to her.

Saint Philomena: Simple Nine Day Novena

Recite the following every day for nine days:

In he name of the Father, and in of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.

O glorious Saint Philomena, who didst suffer so much for love of Jesus Christ, and who art now so powerful in Heaven, I come to thee in my need. Obtain for me, through thy intercession, the favor I earnestly seek. O pure virgin and holy martyr, look upon me with compassion, and present my petition before the throne of God. Through thy merits and thy martyrdom, may I obtain the grace I need, if it be for the glory of God and the good of my soul. Amen.

(state your request for intercession)

Recite: The Hour Father Prayer

Recite: The Hail Mary Prayer

Recite: The Glory Be Prayer

In he name of the Father, and in of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Conclusion

On our YouTube channel we offer a virtual prayer experience for Saint Philomena’s Nine Day Novena. You can find this through the following link: Saint Philomena Nine Day Novena | Patron Saint of Impossible Causes.