Who Was St. Rita of Cascia?
St. Rita of Cascia, born in 1381 in Roccaporena, Italy, is one of the Catholic Church’s most beloved saints. Known as the Patron Saint of Impossible Causes, her life was marked by deep suffering, unwavering faith, and miraculous events.
Though she longed for a life devoted to God, Rita obediently followed her parents’ wishes and married at age 18. Her husband was abusive and unfaithful, and together they had two sons. After 18 years of marriage, her husband was tragically murdered, and soon after, her sons also died of illness. Alone and grief-stricken, Rita sought to enter a convent but was refused due to her connection to a violent family feud.
After demonstrating extraordinary forgiveness and peacemaking, she was finally accepted into the Augustinian convent in Cascia.
St. Rita's humble life was distinguished by obedience and charity.
After hearing a sermon on the Passion of Christ she kneeled before her crucifix, she asked:
"Let me, my Jesus share in Thy suffering, at least of one of Thy thorns."
Her prayer was answered. Suddenly one of the thorns detached and fastened itself in her forehead so deeply that she could not remove it. The wound became worse and was there for a long time.
Rita was granted permission to attend the Jubilee at Rome on the condition that her wound was healed. Her miraculous power was recognized once this happened, but the wound then returned when she returned to the monastery.
As St. Rita was dying, she asked for a rose from her old home. Even though it was not the season for roses, there was one waiting in full bloom. For this reason roses are blessed in the Rita's honor.
Why Was St. Rita Made a Saint?
St. Rita was canonized on the Feast of the Ascension, May 24, 1900 by Pope Leo XIII, not just for the miracles attributed to her but for the holiness of her life. Her saintly virtues of humility, patience, charity, and forgiveness in the face of extreme hardship deeply resonated with the faithful.
What truly distinguished Rita was her devotion to Christ’s Passion. She prayed to share in His suffering and was granted a miraculous wound from a thorn of Christ’s crown, which remained on her forehead for the rest of her life. Her enduring pain became a source of spiritual healing and inspiration for others.
What Miracle Did St. Rita Perform?
Many miracles are attributed to St. Rita, both during her life and after her death. One of the most well-known involves her cousin visiting her on her deathbed in the winter and asking if there was anything she wanted. Rita replied she longed for a rose from her old family garden. Though it was January and the bush was barren, her cousin returned to find a single blooming rose—a sign of Rita’s sanctity and a miracle that continues to bring comfort to many.
After her death, those who visited her tomb reported healings and answered prayers, further solidifying her reputation as an intercessor for the hopeless and suffering.
Why Is St. Rita the Patron Saint of Impossible Causes?
St. Rita’s life reads like a series of humanly impossible circumstances—an abusive marriage, the loss of her family, denied entry into the convent, and years of suffering. And yet, through grace and perseverance, she overcame each obstacle, always choosing love and forgiveness over bitterness.
Because of this, the Church honors her as the Patroness of Impossible Causes, along with St. Jude. Countless people around the world turn to her when situations feel beyond hope—be it broken marriages, health crises, or spiritual despair.
Why Is St. Rita the Patron Saint of Baseball?
While St. Rita is not officially recognized by the Vatican as the patron saint of baseball, the association is cultural. In the United States, many Catholic schools and parishes named after St. Rita have strong baseball traditions. Over time, she became an unofficial patron for players and fans alike, especially in South Side Chicago, where St. Rita High School built a legacy in baseball and started the tradition of praying to her before games.
Her association with miracles and impossible victories makes her a favorite among athletes facing tough odds—turning her into a spiritual coach for underdogs.
Why Is St. Rita Holding a Skull?
In many artistic depictions, St. Rita is shown holding a crucifix and a skull, classic symbols used by saints who practiced deep contemplation on death and the suffering of Christ. The skull reminds us of our mortality and the importance of living a holy life focused on eternity.
For St. Rita, who endured great personal suffering and sought to unite herself with Christ’s Passion, the skull represents her detachment from worldly things and her embrace of the cross.
Devotions to St. Rita
If you are looking to deepen your connection with this powerful saint, consider adding these devotional items to your prayer life:
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🕊️ St. Rita Medal Necklace – A beautiful way to carry her intercession close to your heart.
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🌹 St. Rita Statue (3.5") – Perfect for home altars or bedside devotion.
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🙏 Prayer to St. Rita Laminated Card – Keep this powerful prayer nearby for moments when hope feels out of reach.
Honoring St. Rita Today
St. Rita’s feast day is celebrated on May 22, and she remains a beacon of hope for anyone struggling with painful circumstances or seemingly hopeless situations. Whether you're praying for a miracle, seeking healing, or longing for peace in your life, St. Rita walks with you.
At CatholicFaithStore.com, we’re honored to offer USA-made devotional jewelry and gifts that connect you to the saints and strengthen your walk with Christ.
Final Thoughts
St. Rita teaches us that even the most broken parts of our life can be made whole through faith, forgiveness, and love. Her life is not just a story of suffering, but one of triumph in the spirit.
Pray to St. Rita when all seems lost—she knows what impossible feels like. And she knows that with God, nothing truly is.
Saint Rita is the Patron Saint of Impossible causes, abuse victims, loneliness, marriage difficulties, parenthood, widows, the sick, bodily ills, and wounds.
