It has been one week since we buried our dear little girl. Despite social distancing, family and friends found a way to be there. Lining the streets outside of church and the cemetery. For those of you who were there, I cannot tell you how much this touched us. Thank you.
Each day brings with it the joy of my children all around me and the sadness of losing Philomena. Tears flow easily and pictures are difficult to look at right now. This process, we know, will take time.
Philomena never left the hospital. She met so few outside the nurses and doctors that cared for her. Yet, I am astounded by the letters and emails I have received over this past week. One little baby girl, held in so few peoples’ arms, has somehow touched so many. Like St Therese who never left the convent and is the patron saint of missionaries, somehow Philomena’s isolated short life and death has left a mark on the hearts of many. For this I am grateful. That so many of you love the little girl I so dearly love is a great solace.
I have asked Philomena to comfort me in my sadness as I was privileged to comfort her in her short life. She has taken with her to heaven the knowledge of my love and care and all the prayers that were offered for her by so many. I encourage you to go to our little saint Philomena and ask for her intercession. You have a new friend in heaven.
During Philomena’s last moments on this earth, Fr McCullough led us in the Divine Mercy Novena. The intention for the day just happened to be for the souls of little children.
“Today bring to Me
THE MEEK AND HUMBLE SOULS
AND THE SOULS OF LITTLE CHILDREN,
and immerse them in My mercy. These souls most closely resemble My heart. They strengthened Me during My bitter agony. I saw them as earthly Angels, who will keep vigil at My altars. I pour out upon them whole torrents of grace. Only the humble soul is capable of receiving My grace. I favor humble souls with My confidence.”
No coincidences. What joy to know I had some small part in giving to God something that brings Him such comfort. St Philomena Pauline Marie, pray for us!
Here is a link to a video a good friend made of all who came out to support us at her funeral. https://www.dropbox.com/s/nt3x7sibw34jokn/2160p-1.mov?dl=0
St. Philomena Blog 
Dear Lottie and Tate and family,
You have our deepest condolences. God bless you as you move through your grief. Thank you for sharing this journey of the making of a little saint. I will ask Philomena to pray for Brother Alphonsus and Felice as they continue their seminary studies toward priesthood.
In the hearts of Jesus and Mary,
Anne and John Timossi