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of pastors and of their flocks, and vicegerent of Jesus Christ throughout the universe.

Beside these favors which I have now asked through thy powerful intercession, O blessed Philomena! I also ask an additional grace and favor, which I have the fullest confidence of obtaining through thy powerful intercession. (Here mention the graces and favors.)

Surely God, who is so good, and for whom thou hast given up thy life — God who is so good, and who has bestowed so many gifts and favors upon and through thee — God who is so good as to have died for me, and to give Himself to me in holy communion — God who is so good as to have revealed the burning love of His sacred Heart for me, surely He will not refuse to hearken graciously to thy prayers, to my supplications, and even to His own desire to help the afflicted. For this do I hope, while I put all my confidence in God and in thee, O blessed Philomena! Amen.

O Jesus, grant me grace to love Thee, and to make others love Thee. O Mary, my tender Mother, obtain for me a great love for Thy divine Son Jesus. Holy St. Joseph, bless me and intercede for me. St. Philomena, pray for me. Amen.

— Extracts from " Life of St. Philomena," published by

The Irish Messenger of the Sacred Heart.