DYK cults dedicated to virginity sprang up the 19thC? One, in France, was dedicated to honor #StPhilomena, who may have never existed, but her cult spread rapidly to other countries. Members prayed, pinned emblems to their clothes, & wore chastity belts.

At 13, Philomena vowed herself to Christ. Even when her parents and Emperor Diocletian urged her to marry for peace, she refused—and died a martyr. #FemaleSaintsFest #StPhilomena #HerStoryToo

DYK cults dedicated to virginity sprang up the 19thC? One, in France, was dedicated to honor #StPhilomena, who may have never existed, but her cult spread rapidly to other countries. Members prayed, pinned emblems to their clothes, & wore chastity belts.