Saint Rita of Cascia

"The Lord has taken her as his bride for ever in faithfulness and mercy" (Hos 2:21-22). This is the Entrance Antiphon for the memorial of Saint Rita of Cascia. She can be a saint for our time, being canonized in 1900. Saint Rita is an example of determination, strength, and perseverance. As one commentary stated, her marriage was decided by her parents. Her husband turned out to be violent and unfaithful. Following his death and the death of her sons, Rita followed her original plan and became a nun. Another commentary says, "Suffering bitter trials throughout her life, she was sustained by a deep devotion to the Passion of Christ" (Magnificat, 315). Now, Saint Rita is a patron saint for those going through difficult cases, especially those of marriage. In our society today, we see the attack on our religious freedom and on marriage and family. We need the prayers and intercession of Saint Rita so much! As we celebrate this memorial, may we trust in her intercession before the throne of God and be assured that the saints are with us in our journey on earth. Like Saint Rita, when we encounter trials, may we focus on the Passion of Christ, because our Lord has gone before us and he invites us to follow in his footsteps with the promise of eternal life ever before us. Saint Rita of Cascia, Pray for Us!!!