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Saint Rita of Cascia
Circa 1381 – May 22, 1457
Saint Rita of Cascia was an Italian wife, mother, widow, and Augustinian nun who became a beloved example of forgiveness, patience, and unwavering trust in God. Known as the Patroness of Impossible Causes, she inspires Catholics to persevere in prayer even when life’s difficulties seem beyond human remedy.
Feast Day
May 22
Where From
Roccaporena, near Cascia, Umbria, Italy
Vocation
Wife, mother, widow, and Augustinian nun
Patron of
Impossible causes, difficult marriages, troubled families, and those facing desperate situations
About Saint Rita of Cascia
Born around 1381 in Roccaporena, Italy, Saint Rita of Cascia desired religious life from an early age but entered marriage in obedience to her family’s wishes. She endured a troubled marriage, eventually witnessing her husband’s death through violence and later losing both of her sons. Rather than seeking revenge, she chose forgiveness and worked to bring peace between feuding families. After these painful losses, Rita entered the Augustinian convent in Cascia, dedicating the remainder of her life to prayer, penance, and union with the sufferings of Christ.
During her religious life, Saint Rita developed a profound devotion to the Passion of Our Lord and was traditionally believed to have received a wound on her forehead resembling a thorn from Christ’s Crown of Thorns. She faithfully endured years of suffering while remaining devoted to prayer and charity. Her life is also associated with the miraculous blooming of a rose during winter, a beloved symbol of hope when circumstances appear impossible. Saint Rita died on May 22, 1457, and was canonized by Pope Leo XIII in 1900. Her example reminds Catholic families that forgiveness, perseverance, and confidence in Divine Providence can bring spiritual peace even amid the greatest trials.