saintcarda quiet companion
Baroque portrait of Rita of Cascia
FEAST · MAY 22

RITA OF CASCIA

Patron of impossible causes, difficult marriages, abuse victims, parenthood, wounds.

Saint Rita of Cascia was born in Italy in 1381. She desired religious life from a young age but obeyed her parents and entered an arranged marriage. Her husband was abusive and unfaithful, yet Rita persevered in prayer and patience for eighteen years, eventually witnessing his conversion before he was killed in a vendetta. After the deaths of her husband and two sons, she sought entry into the Augustinian convent in Cascia, which was initially refused due to her status as a widow. She was finally admitted after a remarkable demonstration of humility and persistence. In the convent, she lived a life of prayer, penance, and charity, and is said to have received a mystical wound from a thorn of Christ's crown, which remained for fifteen years. For Catholics today, Saint Rita stands as a powerful witness to forgiveness, marital fidelity, and hope in the midst of profound suffering. She is a compassionate intercessor for those facing seemingly insurmountable trials. Her primary patronage is for impossible causes and difficult marriages.
A PRAYER TO RITA OF CASCIA

Heavenly Father, through the intercession of Saint Rita of Cascia, we bring before you our most difficult burdens and seemingly impossible situations. Grant us the grace of her perseverance and her deep trust in your divine will. For those suffering in troubled marriages, from family wounds, or in loneliness, we ask for healing and peace. Help us to forgive as she forgave and to hope when all seems lost. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Write your own prayer to Rita

Type any intention. Saintcard chooses a patron, writes a personal prayer, and shapes a baroque card for you to keep or send.

Bring an intention
← ALL SAINTS