# Prayer to Saint Rita
*2008-05-22*

> Bill Young reflects on the feast of Saint Rita, the patron of hopeless cases, and shares a heartfelt prayer asking for her intercession.

## Feast Day and Saint Rita

Today is the feast day of Saint Rita of Cascia, known as the patron of impossible or hopeless cases. She was born in 1381 and died in 1457. Forced into a difficult marriage at a young age, she endured a cruel husband and bore two sons. After her husband’s death in a brawl, Rita entered the convent, devoted herself to prayer, and became renowned for her charitable works and deep meditation on Christ’s Passion. She is often associated with the wounds of Christ on her forehead.

## Why We Turn to Saint Rita

Saint Rita’s life exemplifies perseverance in suffering and trust in God’s mercy. Because she interceded for those who seemed beyond help, the faithful invoke her when faced with seemingly impossible situations.

## A Prayer to Saint Rita

O Saint Rita, advocate of hopeless cases, I turn to you burdened by the weight of my trial. Free my heart from the worries that oppress it and grant peace to my broken spirit. You, chosen by God to be a helper of the impossible, obtain for me the grace I now ask.

If my sins stand in the way of my petition, obtain for me sincere repentance and the forgiveness that comes through a good confession. Whatever may happen, do not allow me to continue in such suffering. Take pity on me.

Lord, hear the hope I place in you through Saint Rita, who intercedes for those without hope because of trials and tribulations. Manifest your mercy in us, your children. Amen.

## Closing Blessing

May Saint Rita’s intercession bring you comfort and hope in your darkest moments. God bless you.

*Even in the most hopeless situations, Saint Rita reminds us that God’s mercy is always within reach.*