2. During the process of going from first to second usage, chips would have been very likely made to the edges of the brick tile. Two, in particular, come from one complete bipedal (54) which has been split in two. They continue to have sound and undamaged matching edges along the side of the fracture. 3. Marble slabs are often re-used (being valuable material), but not pieces of brick, particularly if already written upon. In any case, where it was desired to avoid the danger of error, the precaution would have been taken of turning the written face inwards (as usually happens when reusing wooden planks). In this way, the inconvenience of having to put new over old would also be eliminated. 4. Finally, it would be rather unusual and surprising that all three re-used bricks came from one and the same (previous) grave. In conclusion, the hypothesis put forth by Marucchi is of an abstract orientation, improbable, and contrary to the ordinary method of procedure of the grave diggers of ancient times. From this examination, solidly founded on facts, the [Marucchi] hypothesis cannot be accepted as true. (55) During the time when the "Philomena controversy" arose at the beginning of the twentieth century, Fr. Louis Petit, Director of the "Work of St. Philomena" in France was received by St. Pius X in papal audience on June 6, 1907, during which St. Pius X reportedly commented on the controversy. While Petit's recorded account of the pontiff's oral comments cannot be officially verified, the reported statement nonetheless offers valid theological observations: I am very saddened by all that is being written about her. How can such things be possible? How can they not see that the great argument in favor of devotion to St. Philomena is the Curé of Ars? Through her, in her name, by means of her intercession, he obtained countless graces, continual wonders. His devotion to her was well known by everyone; he recommended her constantly... We read the name, Filumena, on her tomb. Whether it be her own name or whether she has another, what does it matter? It remains, it is certain, that the soul which animated those sacred remains was a pure and holy soul that the Church has declared to be the soul of a virgin and martyr. That soul was so beloved by God, so pleasing to the Holy Spirit, that she has obtained the most wonderful graces for those who have had recourse to her intercession. (56) |
