Saints celebrated on the 22 May
SAINT RITA OF CASCIA, WIDOW
Rita Lotti was born to elderly parents near Cascia, in the Italian region of Umbria, around 1381. She wanted to join the convent and become a nun, but instead obeyed her parents and got married. Her marriage was a difficult one and her husband was eventually killed in a vendetta.
A PEACEMAKER
When her sons planned to avenge their father, Rita prayed that they wouldn’t commit murder, even if it meant they die first. Both of them died from illness soon afterwards. Rita then tried to enter the convent, but the community was reluctant to take her. She did not give up, and waited for God to make it possible. In the meantime, she brokered peace between her husband’s family and that of his murderer, thus ending the vendetta. Finally, she was accepted into the convent.
THE WOUND ON HER FOREHEAD
One day, when she was praying for a share in Christ’s sufferings, a thorn from Christ’s crown of thorns pierced her forehead. She suffered the pain of the resulting suppurating wound for the rest of her life. She is known to be effective in making peace, especially in families, and is called the saint of things despaired of.
PRAYER:
Holy Patroness of those in need, St Rita, you were humble, pure and patient. Your pleadings with your divine Spouse are irresistible, so please obtain for me from our risen Jesus the request I make of you (mention it). Be kind to me for the greater glory of God, and I shall honour you and sing your praises forever.
Glorious St Rita, you miraculously participated in the sorrowful passion of our Lord Jesus Christ. Obtain for me now the grace to suffer with resignation the troubles of this life, and protect me in all my needs. Amen.
1 Our Father, 1 Hail Mary, 1 Glory be.
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