Today, the Church celebrates Saint Rita of Cascia, known as the Patroness of Impossible Causes. A wife, mother, widow, and Augustinian nun, her life was marked by suffering, forgiveness, and deep devotion to Christ. Saint Rita shows us that no wound is too deep to be healed by God’s mercy, and no situation too hopeless for His grace
Daily Prayer
O glorious Saint Rita,
You endured trials with patience and forgiveness and showed unwavering trust in God’s providence.
Help me to surrender my suffering and burdens to Christ.
Teach me to love as you did—with a heart full of mercy and hope.
May your example inspire me to trust in God, even when the way seems impossible.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Mass Readings
First Reading: Acts 18:1–8
Paul arrives in Corinth and meets Aquila and Priscilla. He preaches every Sabbath, and many Corinthians believe and are baptized.
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 98:1, 2–3ab, 3cd–4
“The Lord has revealed to the nations his saving power.”
Gospel: John 16:16–20
Jesus tells His disciples that they will weep and mourn, but their sorrow will turn into joy—pointing to His resurrection.
Saint of the Day: Saint Rita of Cascia
Saint Rita of Cascia (1381–1457) was born in Roccaporena, Italy. Though she longed to enter religious life, she obeyed her parents and married a difficult man, whom she eventually helped convert. After the tragic death of her husband and sons, she became an Augustinian nun. She was known for her deep prayer life, mystical experiences, and a miraculous wound on her forehead, believed to be a partial stigmata from Christ’s crown of thorns.
Interesting Facts:
- She is often called the Saint of the Impossible because of the many seemingly hopeless situations in her life that God redeemed.
- After her death, a fragrant scent reportedly came from her body and her incorrupt body remains venerated today.
- She is the patron saint of abused wives and widows, as well as impossible causes.
- Roses are associated with her; it is said she received a rose in winter as a sign of God’s favor.
