The Basics: Born circa 1235 in Italy; died March 6, 1252, in Italy; canonized in 1457 by Pope Callistus III; feast day, September 4. Mystic.
The Story: Rose must have been some powerful young orator. She was a teenager when she and her family were expelled from Viterbo because of her outspokenness against the German emperor who held the town and in favor of the pope. She predicted the emperor’s death about a month before it occurred. After the family returned home, she tried to join a convent, but was rejected for the lack of a dowry. Rose accurately predicted that while the sisters would not have her in life, she would be there in death.
St. Rose’s Wisdom: “I do what Jesus has told me to do, and I must not disobey him.”
What We Can Learn: Rose’s fearlessness in standing up for her beliefs despite the political pressures of the day is impressive. Consider writing a letter or participating in a march or other public support of your faith in the coming weeks.
To Learn More About St. Rose: Check out the “machine” of St. Rose of Viterbo, a massive tower that is carried around the town in her honor each year at this time, and learn more about the saint at the community’s Web site.
To Learn More About Other Women Saints and Blesseds: Come back next week, or consider buying my book, Sisterhood of Saints: Daily Guidance and Inspiration.
