Saint Philomena, the Wonder-Worker Paperback – September 1, 1993

I really loved this book about the Wonder-Worker Saint Philomena. I had an old prayer card of hers with a short biography about her and was always intrigued. The book taught me so much more about her. The chapter "Who Was Saint Philomena" was so fascinating. She endured so much for her love of Christ. She suffered at such a tender age to maintain her Purity and Chastity, when all she would have had to do is submit to the Emperor Diocletian to become his wife. She could have enjoyed all the privileges and wealth that would have entailed but instead she valued her Love of Christ more. She was heroic in keeping her virtues and withstood ghastly tortures to do so. She was so young (13 yrs old) and so strong. You can contrast her Heroism, Modesty and Chastity with today's youth and immediately understand that she is a Saint for our times. She is a wonderful example of keeping private what is pure and holy. Our BVM gave her strength in the dungeon where she was tortured because she wouldn't submit; for this reason she is the Patron of the Children of Mary. I have been a devotee since I read this book and she has answered many important prayers for me in a very swift fashion. I love the prayers in the back of this book. I love Father O'Sullivan's writing style. This book has made me very devoted to St. Philomena. I recommend it for anyone who wants a wonderful example of holiness.

To my regret, I only started taking St. Philomena seriously a short time ago. I came across Dr. Mark Miravalle's CD about her in the back of a traditional Catholic Church in Garden Grove, Ca. and listened to it repeatedly. I have a number of books and booklets about this lovely soul already and this is my favorite so far. Fr. Sullivan writes clearly and packs his book with fascinating information not found in other sources. Chapter one on the Catacombs gave me a much clearer picture on how these tunnels were used by the early Catholics. Engrossing testimonials, miracles, wonders, devotions seem to leap out to me on every page. Enjoy the book and please do say a prayer that Philomena's feast day of Aug. 11 be restored on the Church calendar. Perhaps you can find a traditional minded priest who would be comfortable in saying a Mass for this intention ? Tomorrow after Mass, I will ask Father to bless the Chord of St. Philomena which I will then begin to wear. The Chord came with the Blessing and Investiture of the Cincture of St. Philomena Virgin and Martyr from the Roman Ritual 1952. I will ask Father to say it -- I need all the help I can get ! ps -- I would also do a Google search of Edel Quinn and read up on her, then have a Mass said for her beatification -- if Father is willing. In such a systematic way Heaven will soon be full of your dearest, most devoted friends !

- Why I Read This BookI had no idea who St. Philomena was, until one day I discovered a prayer card about her in my chapel. In more than one time of need, I was astonished how powerfully Philomena had responded to my poor prayers. In consequence, I wanted to learn more about the saint and her life.- PositivesThis is an excellent, short work, which has the power to convert souls. It is worth reading alone for the chapter, "The Great Miracle of Mugnano." I also greatly appreciated the chapter, "The Intercession of the Saints", which address why Catholics revere the saints and pray to them, something most people do not understand. Finally, there is an account of Philomena's life as revealed to one of her devotees, since very little is known about her from the archeological or historical record.- Negatives?None. If you are like me, however, you will find yourself seeking out and reading Fr. O'Sullivan's other highly recommended works, such as The Secret of Confession, The Wonders of the Holy Name, and The Holy Ghost our greatest friend: He who loves us best.- Final ThoughtsI believe this book would be great for those who believe that all miracles are medieval nonsense, since Philomena's body was not discovered until 1802 and the miracles occurred thereafter - in the 19th century, hardly a time of "medieval backwards-ness".I hope that many souls will be devoted to Philomena. She is extremely powerful and will not let you down.

Since I bought three (3) books on St. Philomena and am presently reading this one, I would encourage everyone to buy this book and I must say that learning about the courage of this young l3 year old Virgin, Martyr, you will love her instantly and begin a wonderful relationship with her. The Lord loves her very much since her suffering joined with His and her perseverance in all that suffering has won her great favor with the Lord and he doesn't refuse her anything! Ask her to intercede for your needs and those of your family, friends, country, finances, health and whatever your needs are. She is loving and understanding, I love her, and trust in her that she will intercede for me and mine!

Good reading and great information, but the book fell apart in my hands as i opened it up. But for the price it was a great buy. A little bubblegum and a monkey wrench, it works fine!