Life of Saint Rita
Early Life
Rita was born in 1381 in the village of Roccaporena, near Cascia, Italy. Her parents, Antonio and Amata Lotti, considered her birth a very special gift from God. As a young girl Rita frequently visited the convent of the Augustinian Nuns in Cascia and dreamed of joining their community.
Married Life
Rita was promised in marriage to Paolo Mancini. The young couple were joined in marriage and soon twin boys were born to them. By her prayer, patience and affection, Rita was able to ease the stress and worry her husband experienced.
Death of Husband & Sons
One day as Paolo was returning home he was ambushed and killed. Rita's two sons also passed from natural causes a short time later. Despite her great burden, she could still thank God that they had died in peace, free of the poison of hatred and revenge.
Peacemaker & Nun
Now alone, Rita implored her three patron saints — John the Baptist, Augustine, and Nicholas of Tolentino — to assist her, and set about establishing peace between the hostile parties of Cascia. At thirty-six, she pledged to follow the ancient Rule of Saint Augustine.
The Gift of the Thorn
One day, while meditating before an image of Christ crucified, a small wound appeared on her forehead — as though a thorn from the crown of Christ had penetrated her flesh. For the next fifteen years she bore this sign of union with the Lord.
The Rose & Her Death
Months before her death, Rita asked a relative for a rose from her parents' garden — in January! The woman found a single blossom, to her amazement. Rita passed peacefully on 22 May 1457. Her body, which has remained incorrupt over the centuries, is venerated today in the shrine of Cascia.
Life in Images
