Saint Rita was born in Italy in 1381 and was married at a young age to a cruel and abusive man. After 18 years of marriage, her husband was killed in a feud, and her two sons died shortly after. Saint Rita was left with no family and no means of support. She joined a convent in Cascia, Italy, and devoted her life to prayer and service.
Saint Rita is particularly venerated for her devotion to the Passion of Christ. She received a thorn from the crown of thorns that Jesus wore during his crucifixion, and it is said that the wound never healed. She is also known for her devotion to the Holy Eucharist and her advocacy for peace and reconciliation.
The Triduum in honor of Saint Rita begins on May 19th with a vigil mass. This mass is held in the evening and is a time of reflection and preparation for the following two days of celebration. The mass features hymns and prayers that give thanks for Saint Rita and her miraculous intercessions.
On May 20th, the feast day of Saint Rita, a solemn mass is celebrated. This mass is the highlight of the Triduum and is attended by many devotees of Saint Rita. The mass includes a homily that reflects on the life and works of Saint Rita. The priest may also bless roses, which are a symbol of Saint Rita’s intercession.
The Triduum concludes on May 21st with a mass that honors the Blessed Virgin Mary. Saint Rita had a deep devotion to Mary, and this mass is a way of thanking her for her intercession in the life of Saint Rita. The mass is a reminder of the importance of our relationship with Mary and the role she plays in our lives.
The Triduum in honor of Saint Rita is not just a time of celebration; it is also a time of reflection. It is a time to remember the struggles of Saint Rita and the challenges that she faced. It is a time to recognize the power of prayer and the miraculous intercessions of the saints. It is a time to renew our faith and to recommit ourselves to a life of service and devotion.
For those who are unable to attend the Triduum in person, there are many ways to celebrate Saint Rita. You can light a candle in her honor, pray the novena to Saint Rita, or read about her life and works. Saint Rita is a powerful intercessor, and she is always ready to hear our prayers and petitions.
In conclusion, the Triduum in honor of Saint Rita is a time of celebration, reflection, and renewal. It is a time to honor the life and works of Saint Rita and to thank her for her miraculous intercessions. It is a time to renew our faith and to recommit ourselves to a life of prayer and service. May Saint Rita continue to intercede for us and guide us on our journey of faith.