Saint Rita of Cascia is one of the most beloved saints in the Catholic world, known as the patron saint of impossible causes. Her life of patience, forgiveness and faith in the face of great suffering continues to inspire millions. In this article, we share her story, the meaning of the Saint Rita medal and how to choose one in 18K gold.
Who Was Saint Rita of Cascia?
Rita was born in 1381 in Roccaporena, a small village near Cascia, Italy. Married young to a difficult and violent husband, she responded with patience and prayer, and he eventually changed his ways. After her husband was murdered and her two sons died, Rita entered the Augustinian convent of Cascia, where she lived a life of prayer and penance for forty years. She died on May 22, 1457, and was canonized by Pope Leo XIII in 1900.
The Wound and the Rose
In 1442, while praying before an image of the crucified Christ, Rita received a wound on her forehead, as if a thorn from Christ’s crown had pierced her. She carried it for the rest of her life. Shortly before her death, in the middle of winter, she asked a cousin to bring her a rose from her family garden, and a single rose was found blooming in the snow. That is why Saint Rita is often shown with a cross, the wound on her forehead and roses, and why roses are blessed on her feast day.
Patron Saint of Impossible Causes
Saint Rita is the patron of impossible causes, difficult marriages, abused women, widows and mothers. Her feast day is May 22. People turn to her when a situation seems to have no solution, trusting in her intercession and in God’s mercy.
The Meaning of the Saint Rita Medal
Our 18K gold Saint Rita of Cascia medal shows the saint with the cross, a reminder of her deep devotion to the Passion of Christ and her willingness to carry suffering with grace. Wearing it is a constant reminder that no cause is impossible with faith, and a source of hope and strength in difficult moments.
How to Choose Your Saint Rita Medal
Each medal is crafted in hypoallergenic 18K gold with fine detail, made to be worn every day and treasured for generations. The 11mm Saint Rita medal is small and delicate, the 13mm medal is perfect for everyday wear, and the 15mm medal makes a beautiful statement. It is a meaningful gift for a mother, a wife, a widow or anyone going through a difficult time.
Explore our full collection of 18K gold saint and religious medals, and discover the story of another beloved helper in difficult times, Saint Anthony of Padua.
