Novena to Saint Rita, first day

Saint Rita of Cascia is a beloved of the Roman Catholic Church. Known as the patron saint of impossible causes, Rita is venerated by those who face difficult situations that seem hopeless. Her life story is a testament to the power of faith and perseverance, and her intercession is sought by millions around the world.

The Novena to Saint Rita is a nine-day that seeks her assistance in times of trouble and distress. It is a powerful tool for those who are facing difficult circumstances and need the guidance and strength of a saint known for her ability to work miracles.

The first day of the Novena to Saint Rita is a time to reflect on her life and to seek her intercession in our own lives. We can use this day to meditate on the lessons we can learn from her experiences and to ask for her help in dealing with our own challenges.

Saint Rita was born in the small town of Roccaporena, near Cascia in Italy, in 1381. Her parents were devout Catholics who raised her in the faith. As a young girl, Rita showed a great devotion to prayer and fasting and spent much of her time in contemplation.

At the age of twelve, Rita got married to Paolo Mancini. Despite her husband’s volatile temper, she remained devoted to him and their two sons, whom she brought up in the faith. However, her husband’s involvement in a bitter family feud eventually led to his assassination, which left Rita a widow at the age of 36.

After her husband’s death, Rita entered the Augustinian convent in Cascia, where she lived a life of prayer and service. She was known for her compassion and her ability to heal the sick. Legend has it that one day, while praying before a crucifix, she received a wound on her forehead that resembled the crown of thorns. This wound would remain with her until her death.

The first day of the Novena to Saint Rita is a time to ask for her help in dealing with the challenges we face in our own lives. We can pray for her intercession in overcoming obstacles, in finding peace and in achieving our goals. We can also ask for her guidance in our relationships with others, in our work and in our spiritual growth.

Here is an example of a prayer that can be used on the first day of the Novena to Saint Rita:

Dear Saint Rita, you who suffered so much in your own life, please help me to overcome the challenges I face today. I ask for your intercession in finding strength and courage to deal with the difficulties that come my way. Please guide me in my relationships with others, in my work and in my spiritual growth. I trust in your ability to work miracles and I thank you for your help. Amen.

The Novena to Saint Rita is a powerful spiritual practice that can bring comfort and hope to those who seek her intercession. By meditating on her life and asking for her help, we can find the strength and courage to face our own challenges. As we pray this Novena, may we be inspired by the example of Saint Rita and may her intercession bring peace and healing to all who seek her help.