Who was Saint Rita? The saint of desperate causes

A life marked by faith and hardship

Born in 1381 in Roccaporena, Italy, Saint Rita showed a deep desire to devote herself to God from childhood. However, her parents married her to a violent man, with whom she had two sons. Despite her suffering, she remained faithful to her faith and prayed for their conversion. Her marriage was a long road of suffering: she endured humiliation and violence without ever turning away from the love of Christ. She taught her children forgiveness and mercy, even in adversity. Unfortunately, they died young, but not before renouncing revenge and embracing the evangelical peace preached by their mother.com/img/cms/ChatGPT Image 14 May 2025, 16_46_43.png" width="224" height="336" />

After the murder of her husband and the premature death of her children, she entered the Augustinian convent in Cascia. There, she led a life of intense prayer, fasting and obedience. She was given the most humble tasks and lived in great austerity. In 1442, she received a wound on her forehead similar to one of the thorns in Christ's crown, a stigmata of her deep mystical union with Him. This stigmata, which she bore for the last fifteen years of her life, was painful but a source of immense spiritual joy. It plunged her into continuous meditation on the Passion of Christ. Despite her suffering, she always kept her heart open to others, welcoming visitors who came to confide their troubles to her with gentleness and wisdom.

What is the origin of the name Rita?

The name Rita is a diminutive of the name Margarita, derived from the Greek margarites, meaning ‘pearl’. It was made popular by Saint Rita, which gives it a strong spiritual dimension. Contrary to popular belief, it is not a name of Arabic origin. The biblical meaning of the name Rita is associated with purity, perseverance in the face of adversity and unshakeable faith. These qualities are fully reflected in the life of the saint. The rose is the most famous symbol of Saint Rita. It is said that a miraculous rose bloomed in her garden in the middle of winter, a divine answer to her prayer. This is why rose blessings are an essential tradition on 22 May. The medal of Saint Rita often depicts the saint with a cross or stigmata. This is why rose blessings are an essential tradition on 22 May. The medal of Saint Rita often depicts the saint with a cross or stigmata. This is why rose blessings are an essential tradition on 22 May. The medal of Saint Rita often depicts the saint with a cross or stigmata. This is why rose blessings are an essential tradition on 22 May. The medal of Saint Rita often depicts the saint with a cross or stigmata This is why rose blessings are an essential tradition on 22 May. The medal of Saint Rita often depicts the saint with a cross or a rose. It is worn as protection and as a symbol of trust in her intercession. You can discover several in our collection of Saint Rita medals.

Where is Saint Rita's body?

Saint Rita's body rests in a shrine visible at the sanctuary of Cascia in Italy. Her incorrupt remains have been on display for veneration by the faithful for centuries. This sacred place welcomes thousands of pilgrims every year who come to ask for her help.

Is Saint Rita the patron saint of gypsies?

Yes, Saint Rita is recognised as the patron saint of lost causes, battered women and couples in crisis, but also as the protector of the gypsy people. Her message of peace, reconciliation and forgiveness speaks strongly to all suffering or marginalised communities.

Why pray to Saint Rita?

Known for overcoming terrible trials, Saint Rita has become a figure of hope. Many miracles are attributed to her, and the faithful around the world pray to her when they are on the verge of despair. Her intercession is particularly sought after for family conflicts, serious illnesses, and all situations that seem hopeless. You can find our selection of articles dedicated to Saint Rita on our website. At home, you can light a candle, pray a novena, or offer a rose in her honour.com/en/search?controller=search&orderby=position&orderway=desc&search_query=neuvaine+sainte+rita&submit_search=‘>novenas dedicated to Saint Rita as well as our rosaries to accompany your prayers.

Saint Rita in everyday life

To keep Saint Rita close to you, we offer a variety of religious items bearing her image. A way to nourish your faith and feel protected in difficult times.

Prayer to Saint Rita

O Saint Rita,

You who have known the tears, wounds and but which has never stopped believing in the love of God,
listen to my prayer on this this day of trial.

You who intercede for the lost causes,
come to my rescue when everything seems impossible.
Teach me to forgive, as you have forgiven.
Give me the strength to hope, when doubt doubt overwhelms me.

I confide this burden that weighs heavy in my heart,
and I believe that you present my your troubles to the Lord with love.
Saint Rita, flower of patience and surrender,
obtain-me the peace of the heart and the confidence in God's plans.

I commit to make known your name,
and stay loyal, even in the heart of the storm.

Amen.