Saint Rita of Cascia

World's Best City

2011-02-22T22:33:00.000-08:00

Here in my Saint Rita of Cascia blog, I would like to share my trip to Paris France – one of the best times of my life. Last November 20, 2011, I got the chance to visit France on my way to Manila.

At first I was hesitant to pass by the city, much more stay there for five long days. But once I started with my tour of the city, my impression about it has totally changed.

As I always said, Paris is simply the best city in the world. Everything about it was magical. I was about to see the Eiffel Tower – an awesome sight to behold.

I also visited the Louvre Museum, where the famous Mona Lisa portrait can be seen. Of course, going there would not be complete without a day’s visit to the Disneyland Park.

I was also able to hear the mass at Notre Dame Cathedral, the ceremony of which was special because it was officiated by the Bishop of the City.

With the many Patron Saint Statues on the sides around the Cathedral, I decided to check if one of them was Saint Rita. Unfortunately, she was not one of them. I could have checked if there was a church in the city dedicated to her but I have no access to the internet.

By the way, I also got to visit the Church of St. Catherine de Laboure which is also located in the city proper. I was able to buy a few medallions and pamphlets of her novena.

Generally I have a great time at Paris. The few days I spent there were not enough for me to fully enjoy all that the city could offer.

Novena of Saint Rita of Cascia - Powerful Prayer

2010-12-08T23:58:00.000-08:00

I finished another Novena of Saint Rita of Cascia and she again proved to be a great and effective intercessor. I had an aching leg which sometimes was unbearable especially during when I woke up during the morning. But after I turned to Saint Rita for help and prayed her Novena, the Lord has miraculously healed my leg. It really is great to feel and be healthy again. I wish for everyone to realize the powerful intercession of Saint Rita of Cascia. However, we must also understand that while we can turn to prayers to the Lord God, we can only enjoy his blessings of health if we help ourselves by changing our ways and living in a healthful manner.

Thank You So Much St Rita of Cascia

2010-09-09T15:08:00.000-07:00

My youngest brother was going through some difficult times and because of this, everyone in the family was affected. I turned to Saint Rita for her assistance, praying that my brother will be able to overcome his problems and that he become more wise in his decisions, be more kindhearted, patient and loving. I prayed the Novena of St Rita with the intention that my brother sees the beauty and all the great things that life still can offer to him. I prayed that he becomes more responsible in his actions. I fervently prayed to the Patroness of Impossible Cases for her intercession to the Lord - that the Lord may grant the favor that I requested and finally see positive changes in my brother. And indeed it was granted! My brother has changed for the better - which caused so much happiness to the family, especially my mother. Thank you so much Saint Rita of Cascia.

Another Request Granted Thru Saint Rita

2009-12-09T18:21:00.000-08:00

Thank you so much Saint Rita of Cascia for interceding for me. The Lord has healed me completely from an ear problem through your powerful intercession. The sickness was debilitating, dizziness and nausea. But because of your assistance, healing was almost immediate. It was supposedly a health problem that needs a few months of healing - but in my case, I got relief and total recovery in 10 days! Again, Saint Rita of Cascia, my deepest gratitude for your powerful intercession.

Saint Rita of Cascia Novena (say every hour for 9 hours)

2009-09-10T10:23:00.000-07:00

I know that the Novena to Saint Rita of Cascia is prayed every day for nine days, but I just learned that we can also do it every hour for nine hours. Perhaps this can be done by devotees with intentions or requests needing immediate answers or responses from the Lord. I myself have a few important requests that I am desperate to be immediately heard and granted. Below is the Novena to St Rita of Cascia.

Oh Blessed Patroness of people in great need, St Rita, whose pleads before the Divine Lord God are irresistible and heard, who because of her lavishness in granting requests and favors is known as Help of the Hopeless and likewise the Impossible.

St. Rita, you are so humble, so mortified and pure, so patient and of great compassionate love for Jesus Christ that you can obtain from Him whatsoever you may ask, showing your power with the Lord God on behalf of your suppliant; I pray that you be lavish to me, as you have been in many case, for the glory of the Lord, for the cultivation and spread to your devotion, and consolation to devotees trusting thee.

I promise to you, that if my petitions are granted, to glorify you by making known your favor, and to bless and sing praises to you forever. Relying on your power and merits before Sacred Heart of Jesus Our Lord, I pray that you grant my request (state your intention here)
Image credit: Miss Bliss 55

Thank You, Saint Rita of Cascia

2009-06-06T03:25:00.000-07:00

The Lord always hears our prayers, our petitions and requests – and many times whatever we pray for is granted in our favor – so long as it is for our good. I have been a serious devotee of Saint Rita of Cascia, and I promised to tell everyone of any request or petition – and indeed, I devote this post to expressing my deep gratitude to St Rita for her powerful intercession to the Lord and posting a short prayer that anyone can pray to request for her intercession. All the more have I become a serious devotee to Saint Rita if only because of my latest petition that the Lord has granted me.

Here is another short Prayer to St Rita of Cascia:

Blessed Patroness of people in dire need, Saint Rita, you are so pure, humble and patient. Your pleas with your holy Spouse are certainly irresistible do obtain for me please from the Lord Jesus Christ this petition (mention here your request). Shower me with your kindness for the glory of God, and for this I will honor you and sing beautiful praises forever.

Glorious Holy Saint Rita of Cascia, you participated in the passion and suffering of Jesus. Please help me obtain the grace and blessing to suffer in total resignation all life’s troubles and problems. Please do protect and assist me in my needs. Amen.

Short Prayer to Our Beloved Saint Rita of Cascia

2009-05-31T20:08:00.000-07:00

Dear Lord God, through the wonderful prayer and intercession of St. Rita of Cascia, may we be able to learn how to accept our crosses, all of life’s sufferings and sacrifices in the same way and spirit by which Saint Rita bore hers.

Amen

Prayer to Saint Rita of Cascia for the Cure of the Sick

2009-05-30T14:08:00.000-07:00

Dear Saint Rita of Cascia, model wife as well as widow, you have greatly suffered from sickness, yet you showed only patience if only because of your love for our Lord.

May you teach us how to say our prayers like you did. Indeed, we invoke you for your assistance, confident that you will intercede for us. Please help us Saint Rita and aid us in the cure and treatment of (name).

To the Lord Almighty, everything is possible. May the healing of (name) give glory to our Lord God.

Amen.

Prayer to Saint Rita - Another Granted Petition

2009-03-14T13:48:00.000-07:00

I deeply and wholeheartedly would like to express my thanks to Saint Rita of Cascia for another petition of mine answered. As a new goal or intention arises, I turned to the prayer to Saint Rita for effective mediation to the Lord and immediate answer to my petitions. This time my petitions are answered again in the positive manner. I am truly ever grateful to the assistance of Saint Rita of Cascia and Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague, for all their divine help and intercession to the Lord God. For those who have yet to experience St Rita’s intercession, here is the novena and prayer to Saint Rita as well as the novena to Infant Jesus of Prague.
Image credit: Icky Pic

Patron Saint Medals - Great Gift for Everyone

2009-01-25T11:54:00.000-08:00

Catholics love to have patron saint medals worn around their necks. This is especially true to those whose devotion to their personal saints are great and who would love to show it by wearing these medals.

Patron saint medals, which usually show the features and characteristics of a certain saint, has been known to be prevalent as early as the ancient Christian eras. This practice of wearing saint medal is supposedly inherited from the Greek and Roman cultures.

Known to be a means of honoring Christian martyr, the patron saint medals in the latter days are known to be a way of expressing one’s devotion to a saint. For others, it is their belief that the saint medallions are effective in driving away the evil spirits. Wearing a saint medal is also a way of requesting the Lord for graces and blessings.

Patron saint medals usually are used as pendants on fine chains and necklaces. Some businessmen place medals of their patron saints in the holy area or corner of their office or building for protection and blessing. Many give saint medals to family members and friends as worthy birthday presents – together with wishes of good luck and protection that such holy tokens might bring.
Image credit: Lynn (Gracie’s Mom) – BUSY

Guardian Angel Pins

2009-01-10T01:54:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for simple but really cute and warm gift or token, why not go for guardian angel pins? There are many online catholic shops or even those brick and mortar catholic supplies stores that sell custom made angel pins.

Many guardian angel pins of today are intricately made with the use of quality parts and materials and even metals. Some are amazingly designed and created by gold or silver plating it to one’s delight.

The size and shape of guardian angel pins vary – you can have one that’s really of tiny size or there are also large ones. Such pins are packaged on boxes or special plastic envelopes together with a short description of the particular angel.

Guardian angel pins are perfect gifts for loves ones and dear friends. A birthday of a family member or friend becomes even more special if he receives the pin from you as a gift.

Any occasion becomes a special occasion every time you wear guardian angel pins on you. You might simply want to give the one you love a pin as a special way of thanking him or her, or greeting him with Merry Christmas or Happy New Year. You may likewise make the pins personalized by having the name of the received engraved on it.
image credit: gydnew

Prayer Answered thru Saint Rita

2009-01-04T20:42:00.000-08:00

My deepest gratitude to Saint Rita of Cascia for an intention answered by the Lord. I had a health condition resolved and I credit this to the powerful intercession of St Rita, which I earned from praying her nine day novena. Right now, I feel great and in the best of health. Thanks so much St Rita for your intercession.

Merry Christmas from Saint Rita of Cascia

2008-12-26T23:46:00.000-08:00

I wish everyone a Merry, Meaningful Christmas and Happy New Year this 2009. Hopefully, I will spend more time with my Saint Rita of Cascia blog, writing more articles and sharing more of my Christian experiences here in Tel Aviv. Speaking of the Yuletide Season, we all know Bethlehem is the birthplace of Jesus Christ and Israel is where one can find most of the Biblical sites. My stay in the Holy Land (I have 20 months more to go) has been an enriching experience for me so far, one that I will definitely remember fondly when I go back home.

Saint Rose of Lima: Her Life of Prayers and Sacrifices

2008-07-16T11:08:00.000-07:00

Saint Rose of Lima was so called because when she was a baby, her face was observed to have transformed into a rose. Growing up, she has great and passionate love for all things that concerned the Lord God.

Saint Rose of Lima offered up her life to be used for prayer, fasting and mortification. Her devotion was to the Infant Jesus as well as the Blessed Virgin Mary. She had Saint Catherine as her model saint.

Later on, she intensified her sacrifices, and begun regular fasting, and living and looking simply, devoid of all the worldly materials and riches. But she did all this amidst the objections of her close family, ridicule and taunting of her friends. The many hours of a typical day to Saint Rose of Lima as spent on the Blessed Sacrament.

Saint Rose of Lima retired and lived in a small grotto that she built together with her brother. In the garden within the grotto was where she used up her nights in prayer and peace. Despite the objections of her parents, St Rose of Lima live alone, practically became a recluse in a cell, except those times when she needed to visit the Blessed Sacrament.

Many amazing miracles occurred following her death. Her beatification has led by Clement IX in the year 1667, and canonization was on 1671, this time by Clement X. she was the first American to be honored as saint. Saint Rose of Lima’s feast in on August 30, and is known as the Patroness of America.

Saint Adele: Her Life Devoted to God

2008-07-06T20:19:00.000-07:00

Saint Adele is German King Dagobert II’s daughter. She decided to become and work as a nun when she became a widow, but not before making the appropriate provisions for her beloved son, who was to become the father of the famous Saint Gregory of Utrecht.

St. Adele headed the founding of a Palatiolum convent just near the area Trier. She became the first Abbess. Saint Adele ruled the convent with love, holiness and compassion.

Saint Adele is said to have been among the group of Saint Boniface (the famous Apostle of Germany) and his disciples. St. Adele lived a holy life that is filled with sacrifices and good works – a life devoted to the Lord God.

St Emma of Gurk Austria

2008-06-27T04:29:00.000-07:00

Saint Emma was known in her younger years as Hemma; she was a relative of Emperor Saint Henry the Second. She was raised by Saint Cunegund and grew up at Henry's court. In her adult life, she became wife to Landgrave William of Friesach.

During an uprising in one of the mines of William, their children were unfortunately killed. William, because of his grief, went on a pilgrimage to Rome Italy but was not able to come back alive.

St. Emma devoted herself to serving the poor by founding some foundations and religious inns in Gurk Austria. It was said that in a monastery in Gurk, she became a nun and offered her life to the service of the Lord.

Roman Catholic Saint Emma’s feast day is on the 27th of June. She is known as the Patron Saint of Gurk and the state of Carinthia. Likewise we can pray fervently for her intercession to the Lord God as Patron Saint of those with eye diseases.

St Justin Martyr: Patron Saint of the Apologists

2008-06-13T09:00:00.001-07:00

Saint Justin Martyr (100–165) was a Christian apologist and one of the more revered Roman Catholic Saints. His numerous works actually depicted the earliest Christian apologies that still exist to this date.

He was born at Flavia Neapolis or the presently known Nablus. According the the Church records, Justin became a martyr at Rome under the authority of Marcus Aurelius the Emperor.

Justin considered himself a Samaritan, but probably has Roman or Greek blood because of his father and as well as his grandfather. However he was brought up in the early days as a pagan.

St Justin then got seriously involved in philosophy, after which he converted to the Christian religion, and became a devotee to preaching true philosophy. He traveled far and wide to propagate and teach the Christian religion and finally decided to stay in Rome as a Christian teacher.

St Justin Martyr is honored today as one of the revered Roman Catholic Saints. His feast day is on April 14. He is the Patron Saint of apologists and lecturers.

St. Matthias: Patron Saint of Carpenters

2008-06-09T20:16:00.000-07:00

Saint Matthias was a devout follower of Our Lord Jesus during his public time on Earth. As the story goes, Saint Peter asked the people present in deep prayer to select an apostle who will be a replacement to Judas. The position was a very important one as the chosen man will act as a bishop, like the other apostles. He also said that the chosen one should have been with the Lord from His Holy Baptism until Ressurection.

Two names were proposed according to the Acts of the Apostles’ Chapter One. One was Joseph, also known as Barsabbas and the other, Matthias. Both of them – Joseph and Matthias – were serious contenders to the place of Judas and were much thought of by the followers of Jesus. Finally, they had to cast lots and in the end, the name of Mattias was selected.

St. Matthias was a good disciple. He preached and announced the Good News in many places such as Judea and Cappadocia (which is today’s Turkey). He earned many followers and believers of his messages. However, the enemies of the Lord saw the threat coming from Catholic Saint Matthias and decided that it has to end. In their hands, Matthias died a martyr.

Patron Saint: Carpenters, Against Alcoholism
Feast Day: May 14

Patroness Saint Catherine of Sweden

2008-06-07T01:09:00.000-07:00

Saint Catherine of Sweden is the daughter of a more known saint; St Bridget. Catherine born on 1330, promised to take the vow of continence with her husband. In 1348, she traveled to Rome to follow her mother who went there after the death of her husband.

Catherine's husband, on the other hand, died a short time after she went to Rome. Thereafter, St Catherine and her mother considered Rome as a major base for pilgrimage to other religious places such as Jerusalem.

Aside from engaging in pilgrimages, the mother and daughter spent their spare time saying the prayers and meditating. The also work to uplift the spirit of the poor, leading them to the Lord.

After one pilgrimage to Jerusalem, Bridget passed away. Catherine brought her mother back to her country of birth; Bridget was buried it Vadstena, specifically in the Order of the Holy Savior Convent. Catherine, who was also its founder, headed the order. She passed away 24 March 1381.

St. Catherine is known as the Patron Saint of Protection against abortion and miscarriages. She is also recognized as the Patroness of Sweden. Her feast day is on March 22.

Our Saint Maximilian Kolbe

2008-06-02T12:57:00.000-07:00

Saint Maximilian Kolbe
Feast day: August 14
Patron Saint of the Family, Drug Addition, Amateur Radio, Political Prisoners

St Maximilian Kolbe is a Polish Franciscan priest who volunteered himself to die by taking the place of a complete stranger during the Nazi times in a Auschwitz, Poland concentration camp.

He was declared by Pope John Paul the Second as the Patron Saint of the World’s Difficult Century.

Prayer to Saint Maximilian
(To be prayed for 9 consecutive days)

Catholic Saint Maximilian Kolbe, follower of Saint Francis de Assisi, and was inflamed by God’s love, you gave your whole life to works of charity. Please look upon us who confide these petitions through your powerful intercession (you can now mention your intention here).

Consecrated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, you became founder to the Militia of the Immaculata Movement, helping countless souls toward holiness thru the help of Virgin Mary by lead them to goodness and to the Lord God. Help us, through her, to receive the grace of leading numerous souls to Jesus Christ.

In your conformity to Our Lord Jesus, the Divine Savior, you possess a high sense of charity as you offered your very own life for the salvation of a fellow prisoner. Implore the Lord God that we may, through our good deeds, witness the Love of Jesus Christ's Love for the whole world, and ultimately be able to join you in enjoying the holy vision of God.

Visitation of Mary to Elizabeth

2008-05-31T08:45:00.000-07:00

Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary to Elizabeth
Feast Day: 31 May

After Annunciation, Virgin Mary hurried to a town in Judea to visit Elizabeth, her cousin who was pregnant at the time. As Mary greeted Elizabeth, John the Baptist, the baby in her womb, leapt in excitement and joy. This incident is found in Luke 1:39-42. The basilica has a Visitation mural with the depiction of Mary and her cousin outside Elizabeth and Zachary’s house.

Elizabeth asked Mary, "Why would the mother of the Lord come visit me?" She knelt upon Blessed Virgin Mary; this is a sign that she is humbled by the presence of the Lord God and His Mother.

The women are positioned between Joseph, with his donkey and holding his walking stick, and Zachary, who was depicted as an old man (Elizabeth was also depicted as an aged lady). Mary's answer to the question of Elizabeth is actually the lyrics of Magnificat, the well-known canticle sung everyday during Evening Prayer (found in Luke 1:46-55).

Saint Mark, the Evangelist

2008-05-25T20:37:00.000-07:00

Saint Mark the Evangelist, also called by the name of John Mark is said to be the writer of Gospel of Mark. He is also popularly known as constant company of Saint Peter. He is known to have authored the gospel of Mark during his travel with St Peter to Rome. The gospel as a widely popular one containing details about Peter’s activities and works during the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

St Mark also accompanied Barnabas and Paul of Tarsus on the first missionary work of Paul. During this trip, there was a major disagreement between Paul and Barnabas, with the latter separating from Paul and bringing along Mark with him.
Later Paul called on Mark to be his companion. Since then Mark was also known as the fellow worker of Paul.

Saint Mark the Evangelist is also known to have given the message that gives importance to the Holy Word of the Lord God to the lives of everyone. He preaches that the Holy Scriptures speak to all of us and reach the depth of our hearts.

The feast day of St Mark the Evangelist is April 25, also the date of the saint’s martyrdom. He is also known as the Patron Saint of Barristers and of Venice.

St Bernadette Soubirous: Patron Saint of the Sick

2008-05-17T08:13:00.001-07:00

Saint Bernadette, also known as Marie Bernarde Soubirous in her younger days was born and stayed at Lourdes, a Southern France town. Her true Occitan name is Ma. Bernada Sobirós. In the year 1858, Saint Bernadeta (translated as Little Bernadette) reported apparitions of "a beautiful Lady."

This was initial met with major skepticism by the Roman Catholic Church. However, Saint Bernadette’s claims were eventually pronounced worthy of trust and belief after a dedicated and comprehensive canonical investigation.

And one of the true miracles, the body of Bernadette stayed incorruptible after her death, and Lourdes’ Shrine became a very popular site for Catholic and Christian pilgrimage. Millions of pilgrims visit the Saint Bernadette Shrine at Lourdes every year.

Few more facts about St Bernadette

Canonization as Saint: 8th December 1933
Feast Day: April 16
Patron Saint: Sick people, poverty, family

St Athanasius: Patron Saint of Orthodoxy and Traditional Roman Catholicism

2008-05-02T21:18:00.000-07:00

Saint Athanasius the Great (and the Apostolic), also known as Pope Athanasius I of Alexandria was a Church Elder, Bishop of Alexandria, a theologian and a major religious leader in Egypt during the 4th century.

Conflict with Bishop Arius

He is widely known for his role in the popular conflict with Arius, also a Egyptian Bishop. During a council of Nicaea (325), Catholic Saint Athanasius debated against Arius regarding his doctrine which tells about Jesus Christ being a distinct substance from the Lord God.

Reverence for various Churches

St Athanasius is not only considered a Catholic Saint; he is also honored a saint by the Oriental and Eastern Orthodox Churches as well as the Eastern Catholic Churches. He is considered a revered Church leader by the Anglican Communion, the Lutheran, and Protestants.

Chronologically, St Athanasius is the very first Church Doctor with the Roman Catholic Church’s designation - he belongs to the Great Doctors and Leaders of Eastern Church.

Feast day of St Athanasius

Christianity: May 2
Eastern Orthodox: January 18
Coptic Orthodox: May 15

Saint Athanasius is well-known for the title “Champion of Orthodoxy.” He is the Patron Saint of traditional Roman Catholics.

Saint Joseph's Feast Day: May 1

2008-05-01T11:26:00.000-07:00

Today is May 1, the feast day of Saint Joseph, which is not just the Patron Saint of Carpenters and Real Estate Sellers, but also of Workers in general. Perhaps this is the reason why the Labor Day of most countries is celebrated on this date.

Short Prayer to Saint Joseph

Dear Catholic Saint Joseph, guardian of the Blessed Family, please protect the people of Christ, always lead us away from sin and corruption and the powers of darkness. You, who rescued Jesus as a Child from the hands of Herod, so do protect the Universal Church of Christ from harm. Keep us the Children of God one under your loving protection, and by your example, we also will lead a blessed life, and in death be able to experience eternal life and the Divine Presence of God in the kingdom of heaven, Amen.

Related Saint Joseph Article

St Catherine: Patron Saint of Fire Prevention

2008-04-29T11:03:00.000-07:00

Saint Catherine of Sienna is widely recognized as one of the Christian and Catholic worlds’ most intelligent theological and philosophical minds, albeit she never experienced receiving any kind of formal education.

In the year 1377, Catholic Saint Catherine unyieldingly persuaded the Holy Pope to return to the City of Rome, and up to her last breath she as a staunch promoter of the healing of the Western Schism.

Our Lord God gave her Stigmata in 1375, which became visible to people only after St Catherine’s death. The letters and treatise of Saint Catherine of Sienna were seriously considered as among the Catholic Church’s most intelligent theological writings.

St. Catherine died at the young age of 33, and the Catholic Saint’s body was discovered to be preserved in the year 1430.

Patron Saint: Fire Prevention, Doctor of Church
Feast day of Saint Catherine: April 29

Saint Aphrodisius - Cephalophore

2008-04-27T21:04:00.000-07:00

What is a cephalophore? It is actually a Greek word which means “head-carrier.” Cephalophore is a saint who is depicted as holding his head with his own hands; this means that the saint was martyred by way of beheading. Some artists, when wanting to depict a cephalophore, either places the saint’s halo on where his head is used to be found. Other artists and sculptors have their Catholic Saints holding their halo together with the head.

One of the more popular cephalophore saints is Saint Aphrodisius. As he was preaching the Christian faith, he encountered some pagans among the crowd who became reacted violently and went on the behead Saint Aphrodius on the same spot. Aphrodisius then was able to pick up and bring his head to the church that he consecrated at the place. The site still exists – Beziers’ Place Saint-Aphrodise.

The feast day of Saint Aphrodisius is today – April 28.

San Lorenzo Ruiz: First Filipino Saint

2008-04-19T06:24:00.000-07:00

Saint Lorenzo Ruiz, also known as Saint Laurence Ruiz is the first ever Filipino Roman Catholic Saint venerated and honored in the Catholic Church. St. Lorenzo was a martyr during the Tokugawa Shogunate - 17th century persecution of the Christians in Japan.

St Lorenzo Ruiz is considered the Patron Saint of the Filipino and Chinese Filipino youth. He is also known as the Patron Saint of the Filipino Expatriates and people lacking in basic necessities. The Feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz is every September 28.

Prayer to Saint Lorenzo Ruiz

Lord, you have given Lorenzo Ruiz
Great strength to resist the
Forces of death
Because of his great faith in your love.

Through Lorenzo’s prayers
Please make us follow his steps
Help us overcome all adversities and trials
And increase tremendously
Our hope, faith and full love for You.

Dear Saint Lorenzo Ruiz,
You gave much honor to the Philippines,
You are a humble witness of Jesus Christ in your simple life
Up to your own death.

We sent all our prayers and petitions
To the Lord God with your assistance
In order that with all our actions and prayers,
We are able to know and understand more
Our Lord Jesus Christ.

We pray for your intercession
Our dear Saint Lorenzo Ruiz,
For the honor and glory of the Lord God
And also for your honor
As a humble martyr and follower of Jesus Christ
And staunch defender of the Christian faith.

Amen.

Few More Facts about the Saints

2008-04-05T06:27:00.000-07:00

Do you know that as of today, there are more than ten thousand Roman Catholic saints, including beatified persons? However with the Oriental and Eastern Orthodox religions, this number of saints might even be higher. We also have the Calendar of Saints listed according the day on which they are honored and venerated. There is also a list of Catholic saints, according the date of their death.

What really are Patron Saints?

For Christians and Catholics that have the belief that there exist the intercessions of Catholic Saints, this is called the patron saint, wherein the saint has a special fondness or affinity to a specific group. For example, for the carpenters who believe in their intercession, they can always pray to Saint Joseph. And for those who consider themselves burdened with impossible cases and problems, they can also go to St Jude or Saint Rita of Cascia for their intercession.

Negative Views about Patron Saints

Some religions view the belief of Christians and Catholics on the intercession of the Patron Saints as polytheism and even idolatry. They associate the patron saint with the gods or goddesses of pagans during the olden times. And because of these, the non-believers think of the act of saint veneration as one that is condemnable by the Holy Bible.

It must be clear that the praying to the saints does not mean adoring and worshipping them. Catholics and even Christians do not pray to the saints with the thinking that the saints will help them directly.

Catholics are clearly aware that the Roman Catholic Saints are only a medium. They act as effective intercessors, so that your prayers are more effectively listened to by the Lord, with the hope that our intentions will be granted faster.

Pope Benedict's Urbi et Orbi Blessing at Saint Peter's Basilica

2008-03-29T00:29:00.000-07:00

I chanced upon a short clip (blurred copy) of the Pope Benedict’s Easter Greetings to the Catholic and Christian World. Once every year, pilgrims from all over the world gather at the Vatican, specifically at the Saint Peter’s Basilica to hear the Easter message of Pope Benedict – the yearly Urbi et Orbi blessing. Urbi et Orbi literally means to the city of Rome and to the whole world. Therefore, the Pope’s message and Apostolic blessings is sent out to Rome and the world. The other time that pilgrims gather at the Basilica of Saint Peter to hear the Urbi and Orbi message of the Pope is during Christmas celebration. A special part of the blessing is the forgiveness of the sins of the faithful, not just those who were physically present at the blessing but likewise those who are watching the blessing on TV and listening to it on the radio.

Happy Easter to Everyone!

2008-03-22T20:58:00.000-07:00

Christ has risen! As we, our families and friends gather around this Easter, let as remember Jesus’ sacrifice and his blessing and gift to us, the Catholic faithful, of the freedom from the burden of our sins. Let us celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ this Blessed Sunday.

A very Happy Easter to all, from Saint Rita of Cascia blog!

This Holy Week: Commemorating the Lenten Season

2008-03-19T11:56:00.000-07:00

I have already written many articles about the novenas that we say for our Patron Saints, and how we unfailingly pray to them for just about anything, but mostly for their powerful intercession to the Lord. Roman Catholic Saints serve as our effective mediator; they greatly help us in our intentions and requests, so that the Lord may immediately hear and grant them. Patron Saints are the amazing facilitators of our wishes and prayers, and all our humble pleadings that we fervently cry out in order to earn God’s attention and blessings.

On this Holy Week, why don’t we dedicate our time to the Son of God Jesus Christ, who has died for us, for our sins, that we may be granted forgiveness by God? And like how we our fervent devotees to our Patron Saints, may we assign this Holy Week as a time for full devotion to Jesus Christ. Let us commemorate the Lenten Season by intently ponder upon His last hours and finally His Crucifixion and death on Mount Calvary. Without His sacrifice, the ultimate one, we would not have received the forgiveness of the Lord God for our sins.

St Lucy of Syracuse

2008-03-15T01:41:00.000-07:00

Saint Lucy of Syracuse, who is also called St Lucia was venerated both as a Roman Catholic Saint and as an Orthodox Christian Saint. She is considered the Patron Saint of the Blind. Saint Lucia belongs to the group of seven blessed women (does not include the Virgin Mary) who are commemorated by their names in Roman Canon.

The feast day of Saint Lucy used to be on the 16th of September together with Saint Geminianus. Now Roman Catholic Saint Calendar commemorates her on 13th of December.

Here is a short prayer to Roman Catholic Saint Lucy (for those who are blind):

St Lucy of Syracuse
Patron Saint of the Blind and with Eye Problems

We rely on your greatness, Dear Lord God, we are here on our knees, humbly pleading for your help, through the aid and intercession of Roman Catholic Saint Lucy, Martyr and Lady Virgin, to provide and restore full vision, perfect sight, that our eyes may continuously serve on your glory and honor.

Dear St Lucy, hear our requests and help us receive our intentions, Amen.

St. Patrick: Patron Saint of the Irish People

2008-03-10T07:08:00.000-07:00

For the Irish people, there is the festive celebration commemorating the Day of Saint Patrick, on March 17. Saint Patrick’s Day is indeed a big celebration, a major holiday for citizens of Ireland as he is considered here their Patron Saint.

He was a priest who came back to Ireland with the mission of converting the Irish people who were then considered as pagans.

Christian legend tells us about St. Patrick as one who worked all his own just to spread the Christian religion in his country.

Today, Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated all over the world, and even in the United States.

Prayer to Roman Catholic Saint – St. Patrick

Our Dear Father,
You graciously sent our Patron Saint Patrick to spread glory to the Irish people,
With his prayers,
All Catholics and Christians may proclaim their love to everyone
We ask this through Christ our Lord,
Amen

Saint Anne - One of the Most Revered Roman Catholic Saints

2008-03-01T19:35:00.000-08:00

Saint Anne, also known as Anna and the Patron Saint of Brittany, is the sweet mother of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In the story according to Gospel of James, it was said that Roman Catholic Saint Anne and husband Joachim, were surprised by a visit of God’s angel who give them the message that they would be gifted with a child.

Mary was dedicated to the service of the Lord God, as promised by Saint Anne. It was also said that the blessed couple gave Mary to the Second Temple’s service at the tender age of three.

Anne is considered the Patron Saint of women who work in mines and other difficult work.

Prayer to Saint Anne

Oh Blessed St. Ann, one of the most glorious Roman Catholic Saints, you with so much compassion in your heart, especially for us who invoke your intercession and aid, you with so much love for those who hear sufferings.

With heavy onus and troubles, we place ourselves at your humble feet and pray that you listen to our woes and consider in helping us receiving our intentions.

Please do recommend our intentions to the Virgin Mary, your blessed daughter and position them before Jesus Christ, so He may bless them and realize them for us.

Please intercede for us unceasingly, until the Lord God will finally grant our prayers.

But most of all, obtain the grace that one day, we will be able to meet our Lord God Almighty face to face. Amen

Say one Our Father.

Say one The Hail Mary.

Saint Valentine: Patron Saint of Lovers

2008-02-25T10:49:00.000-08:00

On the occasion of Valentine’s Day last February 14, I feel it is just fitting that I write about one of the most loved patron saints, and he is Saint Valentine. You might think that he is just the Patron Saint for lover and couples. But no, Saint Valentine is also the Roman Catholic Saint of bee keepers, travelers and those with epilepsy.

Saint Valentine was said to be a Roman who was martyred because of his Christian beliefs and faith. Other Catholic historians believed that St. Valentine was a priest who was persecuted during the time of Claudius.

It was said that Saint Valentine was able to restore the sight of the daughter of his jailer, while waiting for his death execution. He even left a message for the daughter saying “Your Valentine.”

It was Pope Gelasius who marked the date February 14 as the day of celebration and honor for St. Valentine.

Here is a short prayer to Roman Catholic Saint Valentine

Dear Patron Saint and blessed martyr, Helps us to love with all our hearts. Teach us to find joy and happiness in giving. We pray to you that all true lovers will be able to bring out the very best in themselves. All this in the name of the Lord God.

Saint Augustine: Patron Saint of the Theologians

2008-02-16T03:11:00.003-08:00

Aurelius Augustinus or Catholic Saint Augustine was first a foremost a theologian and was once the bishop of Hippo of North Africa. He is popularly called the Patron Saint of Theologians. If one is to talk about how Christianity of the West developed, Saint Augustine should be a major figure on this religious development. In fact, this Catholic saint is the one who conceptualized the original sin as well as the just war. He is likewise known as the Patron Saint of Brewers.

Short Prayer to Saint Augustine

Beloved Catholic Saint of our generation, you are once human-centered and worked towards false teachings. In God’s Grace, you are converted to Christianity. You finally became a theologian, loving, preaching and centering your attention to the Lord God.

Provide your great assistance to your fellow theologians in their way to the truth and its study. Help them to follow always the Catholic Church as they try to really strive in communicating the traditional way of teaching via a modern form, a new way to help appeal to the modern, contemporary Christian man.

Amen.

Prayer to Saint Cecilia

2008-02-09T08:41:00.000-08:00

I love to sing, and so it is really nice to know that there are Roman Catholic Saints for singers and musician to turn to for prayers, requests and intercession such as Saint Cecilia. The glorious St. Cecilia is known all over the Catholic world as the Patron saint of Catholic music. This famous Catholic Saint’s feast day is on November 22.

Here is a short prayer to Saint Cecilia:

O glorious and blessed saint, who preferred to die rather than deny the King, we request from you your intercession on our behalf. We all lift up our very hearts in songs to give Him the honor He deserves. As we sing, we know that to do this is like doubly praying to the Lord.

Our beloved Saint Cecilia, there is one thing that we are aware of you, and this is the fact that you have become a martyr as you remained true to God.

You ask that you inspire Christian and Catholic songwriters and musicians to make happy the hearts of everyone; this is done by hearing the Lord’s gift and blessing of music played in the air. This will remind people that there is a Supreme Musician all us, everything, including our music. Amen.
Lord, please hear our prayers. Through Saint Cecilia’s intercession, we pray that you will grant all our requests and prayers. Amen.

Say Your Intentions to St. Jude Thaddeus

2008-02-04T11:02:00.000-08:00

Prayer to Saint Jude Thaddeus for Special Intentions

O dear Saint Jude, apostle and faithful friend and servant of our Lord Jesus Christ, name of the disciple who dared betray Jesus, has caused your dear self to be forgotten, but the Divine Church of God invokes you as the Patron Saint of Hopeless Cases.

Please pray for me, o St. Jude, Humble Worker of Miracle, my powerful intercessor to the Lord God. I am very miserable. Pray that I will be able to receive the blessings, assistance and aid from Heaven in all my needs, sufferings and tribulations. I particularly pray for this intention, o Saint Jude Thaddeus. (Here you may say your personal intention or request), and that I may be able to bless the Lord God forever and through all eternity.

Amen

Saint Jude, indeed, is a very powerful intercessor. This is why he is popularly called the Help of the Hopeless. Bring out your prayers and intentions to him, and say this prayer in the most sincere way, and he will make sure that the Lord hear all your prayers.

Prayer to Infant Jesus of Prague

2008-01-25T11:42:00.000-08:00

Mother Mary and Infant Jesus

Here is a prayer that you can say every morning, sweet words that you can offer up to the Dear Holy Child – the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague.

O my Dear little Miraculous Infant Jesus, I sincerely offer up to You all my humble will, so that You will be able to greatly strengthen me, and also my feeble mind so that You can inspire all my thoughts. Bless my intentions, wishes and needs, I pray that you may be able to grant them.

All my intentions, I pray that you will guide them. All my daily routine and activities, bless them that they may be sacred in the eyes of the Lord.

Everything that I am and what I am made of is all Yours, my sweet little Infant Jesus. Hear my prayers and lead my life to the right path; help me not to leave you and your presence.

Amen.

O Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague, I believe that I will be cleansed of all my sins through the precious hands of Blessed Mother Mary.

To all Masses being said all over the world today, I fully commend myself and offer them up to the souls suffering in purgatory.

Saint Paul of the Cross

2008-01-22T19:43:00.000-08:00

Below is a short prayer dedicated to Saint Paul –

O my holy St Paul of the Cross,
You have announced the wonders of the Lord
Through the Passion of His only beloved Son
By words and by actions,
You Saint Paul have become for us a spiritual guide
and teacher of the Holy Gospel
to the world that has become indifferent
to the love of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Help and guide us to witness the love of God
in the loving cross of the Lord Jesus,
and teach us to believe and trust
in all of the blessings and graces God gives to us.
And let the Passion and love of Jesus Christ
be in our hearts,
and bring forth life to everyone.
Amen.

Here say your prayers and intentions to St Paul

Related Article: Saint Paul Beloved Apostle

Say Your Intention to St. Rita

2008-01-19T20:33:00.000-08:00

I will publish again a short prayer to the Patroness of Impossible and Hopeless Cases, Saint Rita of Cascia. The have altered the wordings according to my own personal style of praying.

Prayer to St Rita of Cascia

Oh Holy Lady Patron of those you are in dire need, Saint Rita of Cascia, you are so pure, so persevering and yet exuding great humility. Your words to the Lord are so irresistible that it is impossible not to be heard. Please help us in our intentions and prayers, obtain in our behalf our intentions from the Lord Jesus Christ.

This is my request (say your intention now). Guide us always, be with us as we tread through our humble lifes for the glory and honor of God. We promise to give you the honor that you deserve and sing and shout all your praises.

Amen.

The feast day of Saint Rita of Cascia is on the 22nd of May.

Novena: Praying Through Our Patron Saints

2008-01-14T21:43:00.000-08:00

A lot of Catholics have their own personal Patron Saints, and most of them pray to the Lord through these Catholic Saints. I have to say “pray though saints” because this is actually what we should be doing. Saints are just messengers of our prayers to the Lord. They are like facilitators of our prayers, wishes and requests to God.

In praying through the Saints, one formal way of doing it is by saying the novena. It is a prayer that is usually said one day in a week for nine consecutive weeks. Another way of praying a novena is by saying it for 9 straight days.

Novenas are usually prayed whenever someone has a petition or intention. You will see on the middle part or at the end of the prayer an enclosed message: (Here silently say your intention.) Then aside from the novena prayer, you are also requested to say a number of “Our Father,” “Hail Mary” and “Glory Be.”

Some novenas ask the devotees to publish the prayers once the intention or petition is granted or make a testimonial about any gained positive experience.

There are many devotees who pray the novena of their Catholic Saints without any personal intention but actually do it to continuously honor their saints.

Most saint novenas are available at parish churches, shrines and chapels, and even at bookstores, albeit there are many churches and religious institutions that give them away for free.

To Another Wonderful Christmas this Year

2008-01-07T21:37:00.000-08:00

Christmas once again is over. Did you remember giving everyone some religious token such as saint medals or personalized guardian angel pins? We have to wait again for a year to celebrate this most joyous of all Catholic and Christian holiday. And it is such a long and anxious wait. For the mean time, let us try to keep in our hearts the joy and love that Christmas of this year has imparted on us. Let us save them and not let them erode from us. Keep the fire of warmth and Christian brotherhood burning within us as we look forward to another joyous and blessed Christmas this year. And by the way: Happy Three Kings! from Saint Rita of Cascia.

Old Saint Nick is Santa Claus

2007-12-28T12:14:00.000-08:00

Christmas Day has passed but I would still like to write about Father Christmas, the Patron Saint of the Yuletide Season – Saint Nicholas. As the merry Christmas carol lyrics starts – Jolly old Saint Nicholas….

While Christmas is definitely not without Jesus Christ, as it is His birthday, there are other significant characters and components that this Christian occasion cannot do without. Important facts that make up the season are the Christmas trees and the decors such as wreaths, bells and lanterns that many would love to decorate their houses with.

Christmas is also not without the get together and reunions of families and friends, as well as the masses to celebrate and attended to. And with such gatherings is the giving of gifts to one another.

Last but not the last, Christmas would not be without Saint Nicholas, or more popularly known as the red and white garbed Santa Claus. How did Saint Nicholas or Santa Clause become one of the persons most closely connected to Christmas?

Christmas is the time for gift giving, and because of Saint Nicholas’ character of being a festive giver of gifts, especially to children, he was assigned the title of Patron Saint of Christmas.

Once the bishop of Myra in present day Turkey, Saint Nicholas indeed had the admired reputation for giving presents to people, and since then he has been a revered saint by Catholics and Christians alike.

Now, everyone knows that Santa Claus is Saint Nicholas, Jolly old St Nick.

Merry Christmas from Saint Rita of Cascia

2007-12-25T21:42:00.000-08:00

I chanced upon this Christmas poster on the area of School of Saint Michael at Tel Aviv. Clearly noticeable is the presence of the three religions in the poster; Christianity, Judaism and Islam. I have no sure idea about the messages given by the Jewish and Moslem pictures, albeit perhaps they are Christmas greetings, like what is clearly indicated on the Christian drawing (which says "Merry Christmas").

Here's wishing you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas to All!

2007-12-20T16:12:00.001-08:00

I decided to put up my ‘Saint Rita of Cascia’ blog primarily as my way of thanking Saint Rita for being an effective intercessor to the Lord.

Saint Rita is known as the Patroness of the Hopeless Cases, and because of her powerful intercession, the Lord God has been generous to me. Even if I prayed and requested for the most difficult and seemingly impossible favors, God answered my prayers in a positive way, and for this I owe it to Saint Rita of Cascia for her mediation.

Eighteen months have passed since the creation of this site – a good one and a half years. And this humble weblog has been broadened not just to talk about St Rita but other Saints as well as other Catholic and Christian topics.

Hopefully, despite my limited capacity as a blogger, I would be able to write more articles and maintain my site as active as possible. A million thanks is also in order to everyone has continued to visit my blog and appreciated it.

A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everyone!

Do You Have Your Own Catholic Charities?

2007-12-11T20:06:00.001-08:00

It is Christmas time once again, have you contributed to your charities? Charity is a great virtue of Catholics by expressing their love, concern and care for their fellow men. One does not need to be a saint to become charitable, but you can actually become saint-like by giving a part of what you have to your brothers, especially the ones who are in dire need.

Giving definitely does not only concern the financial aspect. There are many of our brothers who need spiritual, moral and emotional assistance. Hopefully, the Catholic in us will prevail and see providing the needy with whatever help and aid that we can.

It is great if we can express Charity by directly sharing what we can to our brothers. Still, if we are capable of contributing to the Catholic Charities, which are institutions working for the improvement of the lives of our less fortunate Christian brothers and sisters.

What are Catholic Charities? These are groups that are actively working in all fields of human concern, with the main purpose which is to make better the lives of people. Such group work without thinking of earning profit from their humanitarian efforts. A catholic charity organization finds success not in the accumulation of financial profit but in significant improvement of the lives and welfare of our poor brothers and sisters.

As a good Christian, find in your heart to share anything that you have, financial or otherwise, this Yuletide Season. Have your own personal Catholic Charities.

Patron Saint Medals and Statues as Holiday Presents

2007-12-01T00:27:00.001-08:00

The Holiday Season is just around the corner, and so we are again on frenzy about what to give our loved ones and friends. Don’t you think it is a great idea it is if you decide on giving them patron saint statues, medals and even guardian angel pins. Well, we have to be realistic that not all will appreciate this kind of presents albeit it can be worth a try.

For example, if you have a relative who is a physician, then it would be great if you give him a Catholic saint statue or medal of St. Luke, who is the Patron Saint of surgeons and Doctors

Base your gift of saint medal and statue on the occupation of the person that you will give a Christmas present. Here is a saint list which you can use as reference.

St. Matthew – Patron Saint of Accountants
Saint Thomas the Apostle – Architects
Saint Joseph - Carpenters
Saint Paul – Patron St of editors and newspapermen

I take mention of Saint Paul as I believe his patronage can help most of us who write to assist in providing light in all our writings and in helping us publish only the truth. I have a friend who is a blogger and I am sure if he will be happy if he will receive a gift of Saint Paul statue this holidays.

If you have children in your family who are students, then it is great if you can give them some saint medal of St. Benedict or St. Thomas Aquinas.

Catholic saints act not only as our mediator but our protector as well. This is why it is we would want to wear patron saint medals as a means of honoring them.

St. Thomas Aquinas: Patron Saint of the Scholars

2007-11-25T09:03:00.000-08:00

One special Catholic Saint for me is Saint Thomas Aquinas, known as the Angelic Doctor. St. Thomas is famous for the Summa Theologica, which is the representation of his philosophical views. He is also very popular for his views and comments about God and His existence.

Belonging to an opulent clan in Italy, Saint Thomas decided to become a Dominican, which allowed him to immerse himself into profound intellectual work and studies such as Theology and Philosophy.

St. Thomas of Aquinas is particularly close to my heart because my school during my elementary and High School is named after him – the University of Santo Tomas, the Catholic University of the Philippines run by the Dominican Order, and the oldest existing school in the country.

In fact, St Thomas is considered a favorite Catholic Saint among Filipinos, and is known for being the Patron Saint of Catholic Schools, students and scholars. His feast day is on January 28.

Pray to Jesus or the Patron Saints?

2007-11-18T11:19:00.000-08:00

What is right for a Catholic to do; go pray to Jesus for the Lord’s favors or employ the intercession of the patron saints for every request that he has? My thoughts on this concern are somewhat not clear. I mean as Catholics, we know that the Catholic Church recognizes the Saints, and that it has been a widespread practice that we pray to the saints as our intercessors to the Lord.

In all our concerns on every conceivable aspect of our lives, we have a Patron Saint to pray for assistance so that the Lord will hear and answer our prayer requests immediately. There are the Patron Saints of Hopeless Cases – and these are Saint Rita of Cascia and Saint Jude. Then there is Saint Paul, who the Patron Saint of Catholics wanting to know the truth.

Definitely, we have the blessing of the Roman Catholic Church with our veneration of the Saints. But, we are also specifically taught not to worship them. Only the Lord God is worthy of our worship and praise.

On the other hand, what makes it confusing is the passage from the Holy Bible John 14:6 wherein Jesus said, “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life; no one comes to the Father but through me.” Now here is where I am confused, because Jesus says it is only through Him that we get to God. So, where are the Saints in all this?

In my opinion, whatever the teachings of the Catholic Church, we can base our religious practices and actions. It can be that Jesus is the Main Man, as far as connecting to the Lord is concerned. When all else fails, we can pin all our hopes in having God hear our prayers through the intercession of Jesus. However, as the Church teaches, the Saints are there likewise to hear our pleas for them to intercede for us to God. Just like when we ask a friend to pray for us, the Saints act also like a friend. They also pray to the Lord in our behalf, making sure our intentions and requests are heard.

St. John the Evangelist: Patron Saint of Caregivers

2007-11-05T11:53:00.001-08:00

Many of our Filipina compatriots are working here at the Holy City as Caregivers. Everyone one knows how difficult the job of providing care for the elderly person is. Most of them is virtually on call 24 hours, tending to every need of their beloved patient, many of whom are too weak to care for themselves, and some already in their deathbed.

Still and all, the caregivers shower their beloved patients with an unbelievable amount of love and attention, way beyond what their job requires them. Indeed, care giving is more than just a job, it is a noble vocation.

To my compatriots and other nationalities who are working here in Israel as caregivers, I dedicate this article to them, for all their dedication and sacrifices that go with their work.

The Patron Saint of Caregivers is Saint John the Evangelist – which is “unofficial” because St. John is not officially listed as such in the List of Patron Saints of the Catholic Church.

However, many Catholics associate Saint John the Evangelist with caregivers because he was the one who gave great comfort to the Virgin Mary during the Suffering and Crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The Lord Jesus Himself told St John to take care of Mary.

St Joseph: Patron Saint of Those Selling Their Houses

2007-10-31T13:21:00.001-07:00

I always knew that Saint Joseph is the Patron saint of carpentry. But whoah! I happen to know just now that he is also the patron for those who want to sell their houses and property. I think it was meant to be because I was just chanced upon (it's really an accidental thing) this Saint Joseph website stating him as a great intercessor to God in behalf of those with real estate concerns.

And really I thought this was a sign, that I get to encounter St Joseph as I have been wanting for the longest time to sell our house in a province outside of Manila. What I did was immediately I scrolled down on the site in search of the prayer on St Joseph, and upon getting it I really prayed hard for some divine grace. Oh, St Joseph, please help me and be my intercessor to the Lord, may God hear my prayer. I pray that a worthy buyer comes my way and buys my house.

Unfortunately, together with the prayer to Saint Joseph, I also need to have his statue and bury it upside down on the ground of the property. This I think I would not be able to do because I am currently here in Israel. Hopefully, a fervent and sincere prayer to him would be enough to merit a positive response. Please, I hope everyone else would pray for me and wish me the best of luck. I am really praying for a quick positive result regarding the sale of my house.

All Saints Day

2007-10-29T21:43:00.000-07:00

Two days to go and it's All Saints Day. November 1 is a special day for Catholic countries as it is the time for time to visit their departed loved ones in the memorial parks and cemeteries. Actually, I am wondering why it is so-called because it is associated with our departed loved ones and not our saints. There is the All Souls Day, which is commemorated on November 2, and should appropriately be the day in which we should remember the dead. But many Catholic countries, especially the Philippines, we have grown accustomed to remembering our deceased relatives and loved ones on the first day of November. Halloween, while a big celebration in some countries, is not widely celebrated in others. All Saints day in some places like in Manila is more of a chance for reunions - for families to get together. It becomes a yearly get together for relatives and friends, being able to see everyone when visiting a departed relative. Remember that All Saints Day is primarily a day of prayers offered to our loved ones who passed away. Let us pray for the eternal repose of their souls.

Saint Paul the Beloved Apostle

2007-10-26T07:39:00.001-07:00

Saint Paul was originally named Saul, who was a Jewish Talmud follower. The early days of Saul saw him hating the Christians so much that when Saint Stephen was stoned, he was one of those who cast at him.

He was going to Damascus to arrest some Christians when he fell to the ground and got blinded by a great light from the heavens. At this time, he received a message that his persecution of the Christians is like doing the same to Jesus.

Because of this, he was converted as a Christian and his name was changed to Paul (and later on upon his canonization - Saint Paul). He later was a staunch supporter and propagator of the Christian religion, traveling far and wide to preach Christ’s Words. He later became a martyr and Catholic saint.

St Paul is the Patron Saint of Authors, Publishers, and Writers. He is dearly remembered on January 25th, celebrating his conversion to Christianity.

Saint John of the Desert Church

2007-10-20T09:27:00.001-07:00

Sign pointing to the direction of the Church, which is

under the custody of the Fransiscan Order

Entrance to the Church. We almost missed getting inside,

as they close at lunchtime

Uniquely designed and built Saint John's Church

Church altar

Miraculous, healing water is said to flow here

We were able to visit just recently the Saint John of the Desert Church; a serene yet amazing shrine in the desert dedicated to Saint John the Baptist. I say amazing because of its high and strategic location, as well as its miraculous water continuously flowing and brought forth from a small cave structure underneath the church. The location of the church is said to be where the people followed Saint John to hear him preach and be baptized.

My All-time Favorite Patron Saints

2007-10-13T05:22:00.000-07:00

Saint Rita of Cascia – On top of my list of Patron Saints. Also known as the Patroness of Lost and impossible cases. Many of my requests and prayers were heard and granted by our Lord thru St. Rita’s intercession. Whenever I have a prayer intended for my mother, I always implore help and intercession from St. Rita. Did you know that she is also the Patron Saint of the sport baseball?

Another favorite of mine is St. Jude, not Iscariot, but Thaddaeus. A true and loyal friend and servant of Jesus Christ, he is known as the Patron of hopeless causes, just like St Rita. I pray the novena of St. Jude every Tuesday. His feast day is on two dates, June 19 and October 28. St Jude is also known as the Patron of Hospitals.

Infant Jesus of Prague – I am not sure if he falls under the category of saints; still, I pray the novena of Infant Jesus. One of the most famous statues of the Infant Jesus, he can be found at the Our Lady Victorious’ Church in Mala Strana of Prague. I say the novena of Infant Jesus because I believe that he is a powerful intercessor to the Lord. I have also read about the many miracles and favors such as healings of people who are serious devotees of the Infant.

St Peregrine – I chanced upon an old novena of Saint Peregrine, which tells about how he can help the sick get well. There were times when I had bouts with headache, and when I ask for help from St Peregrine to get rid of such pain, surely the headache does disappear. It is not surprising as Saint Peregrine is a miracle worker and also the Patron of Cancer victims and patients. I also pray to St Peregrine whenever I want someone dear to me who’s sick to get healed.

Honoring Images of Catholic Saints

2007-10-06T12:30:00.000-07:00

The First Commandment of God states “I am the Lord your God, You shall not have strange Gods before me.” Well, of course, as devout Catholic, we abide by this commandment. We recognize the one and only God, our Heavenly Father.

And indeed, it is really considered a mortal sin if we as Catholics worship other gods apart for Him. The first commandment likewise dictates that statues and images, whether it be of patron saints and even the Blessed Virgin Mary should not be worshipped, in the same manner as pagans worshipping their stone idols. This is a form of idolatry and is considered a grievous sin.

So, what does it make of the multiple of Catholics who have images of Catholic saints, the Virgin Many and other religious relics displayed at the altar of their homes? Are they sinners outright? Are they offending the Lord God because of these practices?

In my opinion, if the purpose of the presence of the images of patron saints is to honor them as mediators or messengers to the Lord, then it is not a sin. If it is a form of respect and admiration to a particular saint and the holy life that it lived, then I do believe that it is okay for such images to have a place in our altars.

Respect and honoring of the Saints is one thing; worship of God is another – it is a great and truly holy act that is above all else.

Catholic Saints for Children

2007-10-01T01:07:00.000-07:00

In my opinion, saints are like angels. They look after us, protect us and guide us to safety during our day to day personal activities. Saints, I believe, act as guardian angels.

Still, saints are so much more. They are effective intercessors to the Lord God. They are like our messengers, helping us by delivering our requests and prayers to the Lord.

And parents and Catholic, we can try educating our kids into the lives of the Patron Saints. We can tell about the stories of how they came to be.

We all know how all of them suffered because of the Catholic Faith, and remained brave and strong during times of trials and dangers brought about by their standing by their faith.

To our kids, we can present them as Christian heroes; they are personalities that serve best as model Catholic to our children.

There are many that serve as Patron Saints of Children. Some are Saint Nicholas and the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague. Saint Thomas More is for the adopted children.

For boy scouts, we have St. George and for families, the Patron Saint is St. Joseph.

Let us tell our children about the life stories of saints, and hopefully our young ones may value their journey to sainthood and even learn from it.

On Becoming Like a Saint

2007-09-28T13:19:00.000-07:00

When I was a small boy, many years ago, I remember my aunt teasing me about my not having even a bit of a chance of becoming a saint. Why so, I ask her? She, like everybody else, saw me as a mischievous child back then. I myself was aware that I was a naughty kid, sort of a “Dennis the Menace” type.

I gamely replied to my aunt not to worry, as I have no intention of becoming a saint like those Patron Saints to whom she prays to. Up to now, what I have of an image of a Catholic saint is one with impeccable character and filled with the virtues which make him worthy of the presence and love of the Lord God.

Still and all, I also believe that every person has little saintliness in him. Okay, admittedly some people are definitely more saintly. I rank myself among those who lean on being more worried about my material wants, while neglecting the spiritual needs, which I would also admit is more important but I somehow ignore.

I may not become a saint, but I can sure try doing things that are saintly. Small things, little sacrifices like a few hours of fasting, walking for long hours, listening to mom’s sermon instead of talking back, caring more about the pets. I believe that performing such things is pleasing to the eyes of God. There really is no need to be a Saint; just act according to God’s Commandments, and we are next to being one.

You Know Your Friend is a Catholic if...

2007-09-15T08:33:00.000-07:00

One time you rode with him in a bus to work, and in the midst of stalled traffic, he takes out a Rosary and begins to recite it.

Inside his leather wallet, you see a small pamphlet of novena to his Patron Saint.

Your Catholic friend might miss his lunch and all, but never the Sunday morning or evening mass.

Your friend’s fervent dream is to go the Jerusalem, the Holy Land and Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ. Of course, let us not leave out the Vatican, where he might want to try to have even a glance of the Pope.

It does not matter whether a request is small or great, your friend will seek the intercession of all patron saints that he knows and of course the Blessed Virgin Mary. In my case, I ask for Saint Rita of Cascia and the Infant Jesus of Prague to intercede in my behalf to our Lord.

For your Catholic friend, Christmas is the most beloved holiday, celebrating the birth of Jesus.

In the absence of a family elder, your Catholic friend rushes to the local parish priest for guidance and advice on serious matters.

Lastly, speaking of the Virgin Mary - your friend is a Catholic, and a Filipino one, if he affectionately calls her “Mama Mary.”

Saint John in the Wilderness

2007-08-25T21:41:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures that I took of the Church of Saint John in the Wilderness in Ein Karem. It was a blazing summer day, yet a great church visiting day for us here in Israel.

Saint Stephen's Modern Church, Israel

2007-08-17T09:09:00.000-07:00

While we have yet to visit a shrine of Saint Rita of Cascia, we were able to visit another church. This is St. Stephen's Modern Church, which is located at Beit Jamal monastery in Jerusalem.

What was very nice about the Church was that it provides free Bibles and Christian pamphlets in different languages. We were able to get one written in Tagalog.

Do you know that St. Stephen is the first Christian martyr? Such a noble fact to remember him with.

Beit Jamal monastery, aside from the church also contains the first meteorological station, which unfortunately we were not able to see the time when we visited the place. It is still running, and has been in existence since 1919 under the Salesian Monks.

Above are some pictures of the Church of Saint Stephen. Hopefully, I can finally find a Saint Rita of Cascia shrine, if not here in Israel, then maybe the one in the US or if lucky enough, the Italian shrine even.

St Peter's Church in Gallicantu - Few More Pictures

2007-06-10T10:43:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of the great colorful interior of the Church of St Peter at Gallicantu.

Earlier Article: Saint Peter’s Church in Gallicantu

Many must have noticed that I have somewhat made discussion on this blog about the many Churches here in Israel, and not just posts about Saint Rita of Cascia.

Admittedly, I am running out of topics about my beloved Saint Rita, and Infant Jesus of Pragues so I would have to make this blog one which discusses general topics that are mainly religious, Christian or Catholic in nature.

Trappist Monastery

2007-06-01T20:47:00.000-07:00

Still, I have no information on where a church or shrine of Saint Rita of Cascia or Infant Jesus of Prague can be found here in Israel. Any information you might have?

However last week, we were about to visit the Trappist Monastery located at Latroun. The monastery is modern in design and structure, with a nice garden and fruit orchards on the area surrounding the building.

The Trappist Monastery actually being run by the austere Cistercian monks, who are popular for maintaining a frugal living and have a vow of silence.

The monastery is known for producing excellent olive oil, which people can have at their shop in the monastery.

Church of St Peter in Gallicantu

2007-04-14T01:54:00.000-07:00

The Church of St Peter in Jerusalem should not be mistaken for the St. Peter's Church, which is located on the Jaffa Hill in Tel Aviv. The location of Church of St. Peter is said to be where Jesus was denied three times by Peter. Hence the name Gallicantu, or "cockcrow", for the place. We all know that when Peter was denying Jesus, there coincided the crows of the cock, which Jesus said would be the sign of Peter's denial. So now we have pictures here of the two shrines for St. Peter, while I have yet to locate a church here in Israel dedicated to Saint Rita of Cascia and the Infant Jesus of Prague.

The Milk Grotto

2007-03-24T09:11:00.000-07:00

The Milk Grotto

Me in front of the entrance of the Milk Grotto

Likeness of Infant Jesus

So sorry it took me more that a month to write a post here at my Saint Rita of Cascia (and Infant Jesus of Prague) site. Quite busy with work, that's all. Hope many still visit here from time to time. Hopefully I would be a more frequent poster here. Anyway, here is another picture of a church in Bethlehem. The Milk Grotto - the site where the Holy Family rested and the Virgin Mary nursed the Infant Jesus.

Church of the Nativity

2007-01-19T22:44:00.000-08:00

Outside the Church of the Nativity

Interior of the Church

The Holy Manger

I promised to feature churches and chapels here at my Saint Rita of Cascia site, so here is one very special for everyone. I was able to visit the Nativity Church in Bethlehem for the second time, and just like the first, the feeling of being there at the site where the Infant Jesus is said to be born was simply overwhelming. Hopefully, the next time around, I would be able to feature a shrine of Saint Rita of Cascia and Infant Jesus of Prague. A happy and peaceful New Year to everyone!

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2007-01-05T20:50:00.000-08:00

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Few Days More and It's Christmas

2006-12-15T20:00:00.000-08:00

A few days more and it is Christmas once again. I seem to be already in the holiday mode; it's been more than a week seen I last posted here at my Saint Rita of Cascia and Miraculous Infant of Prague site.

I will be celebrating Christmas here in Tel Aviv Israel for the second time. Unfortunately we will stay put in Jaffa Tel Aviv and not anymore go to Bethlehem for the Midnight Christmas Mass.

Most Filipinos that I know will go abroad for the holidays - some to the United States, most for a vacation in Manila.

It is going to be a quiet Christmas once again. It's quite sad but that's how it is. It is just impossible for me to go to Manila and be there for the holidays.

To keep myself from dwelling on it, I just remind myself of the blessings that come my way. A good job, this great experience of being in a wonderful country.

Here is where I also learn how to makes sites. All the site that I have, including this site of Saint Rita of Cascia and the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague, I did here.

Perhaps a few more years and I will be back home. In the meantime, I realize that I am really blessed to be here. And I intend to make the most of the stay here in Israel.

Merry Christmas to you all!!

On Devotion to Saints

2006-11-23T21:26:00.000-08:00

It is a reality that to be educated and instilled early in life on religious concerns greatly affects one’s learnings and leanings. My primary and secondary education saw me reading and studying books and absorbing lessons on the Catholic faith. I imbibed the Thomasian teachings on God, the Holy Trinity, the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Holy Rosary, Heaven and Hell, the existence of purgatory, the Final Judgment, the Seven Sacraments and the Communion of Saints. I accept and acknowledge such Catholic teachings as true, and I admit to be an opinionated person however anyone might try proving to me such teachings as false.

Like in the topic of the saints and my devotion to Saint Rita of Cascia and the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague. Others have questioned it, arguing that only God deserves worship and adoration, to which I agree a hundred percent. I worship only the Lord God. And to the saints, particularly Saint Rita of Cascia and the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague, I believe, honor and acknowledge them as intercessors to God. I even believe that owning their likeness such as statues and patron saint medals is just a way of honoring them. However, I believe that they are not even the way to the Lord, because only Jesus Christ is. For me, saints are more like messengers and bringers of our prayers and intentions. And indeed in my case they have proven to be such reliable ones, to which I am totally grateful.

Saints: Ideal and Perfect Models

2006-11-10T00:52:00.000-08:00

Saints, especially the patron saints such as Saint Rita of Cascia and the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague in my case, act as our intercessors to the Lord. They are powerful mediators who act as a powerful messenger and bringers of our requests to the Lord.

And they are only happy to be of help to those who pray to them and ask for their assistance and intercession.

Saints, aside from being an able intercessor can also serve as a perfect model especially for young men and women. Saints have lived their lives with the practice of great virtues such as charity, love and poverty. Perfect examples are the lives and sufferings of Saint Rita of Cascia and the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague.

Saint Rita, for example as lived her life in pain and suffering because of the loss of her family, yet she wholeheartedly and willingly accepted her fate as something that came from the Lord. She also lived a life of humility and poverty and she offered them up to the Lord. Saint Rita lived the life that we must all emulate.

Rosary Sisters Convent

2006-10-30T19:49:00.000-08:00

I have yet to acquire a picture of of the Church or Shrine of either Saint Rita of Cascia or Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague. Of course, there are numerous pics in the net but I would like to post Saint Rita and Infant Jesus' photos with permission.

Nonetheless, I am posting here the photo of the Convent of the Sisters of the Rosary in Jerusalem, which I got to visit recently. Many Filipinas assist in the Convent - they are our Filipino caregivers who are willing to offer up their spare time in the service of the Lord.

Saint Peter's Church

2006-10-21T01:13:00.000-07:00

Before I have posted a photo of Saint Anthony's Church in Jaffa of Israel. Here is a photo of Saint Peter's Church also in the same place.

Like the Church of St Anthony, St Peter's Church is one of the more popular Catholic Churches in the area. The church is frequently visited by Filipino and other foreign workers in the White City. I believe the prayer meetings and bible studies of the Couples For Christ and other Catholic and Christian groups are held there.

Hopefully, I would be able to post a church or Shrine of Saint Rita of Cascia and the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague. I wish I could find some free pictures or photographs online which I could be able to post here in my site.

Anybody who has a picture of the Church or Shrine of Saint Rita of Cascia and the Infant Jesus of Prague and willing to lend them to me for posting, please do send a message.

Saying Prayers Fervently

2006-10-13T15:11:00.000-07:00

Do you somehow think that praying the Holy Rosary or saying the novena to Saint Rita of Cascia or the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague can be monotonous and repetitious?

Of course, the Holy Rosary is composed of 3 Mysteries, which is 15 decades of 1 Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, and 1 Glory Be. Even with just one mystery, we somehow would have the tendency to pray in a repetitious manner. I myself would admit to it. Somehow, along my saying the Holy Rosary, my mind in a few instances would wander off and think of other things that would make me lose my concentration on my prayer. This is the same when I pray the novenas of Saint Rita of Cascia and the Infant Jesus of Prague.

What I do to really concentrate on my prayer is to visualize the mysteries while I am praying. For example, if the Mystery is Agony in the Garden, while praying I think of how Jesus himself was praying and contemplating at the Garden of Gethsemane. I feel that by praying this way, the prayers become more meaningful and important to the Lord.

When it comes to the novenas, I look at the image of Saint Rita of Cascia or Infant Jesus of Prague while praying to them. Sometimes I say the words of the prayer aloud. This way, I more feel the significance and meaning of such prayers.

In my opinion, the best way to say prayers is to feel it, and say it like it is coming from your heart. You feel your prayers, and say it fervently – it will be certain that they will be heard.

Pictures of St Rita and Infant Jesus

2006-10-06T13:33:00.000-07:00

I am posting here the images of Saint Rita of Cascia and Infant Jesus of Prague.

The picture of Saint Rita, I actually got from a magazine while in Israel. It tells about the story of St Rita, her miracles and her novena. This pictures is what's in front of me as I pray her novena. Notice the angel behind her and about to place a crown of thorns upon her head as she pray.

While the second posted picture is that of Infant Jesus in the cover of His novena booklet. You can tell that the booklet is already worn out, from my regular praying of His novena.

Saint Thomas Aquinas

2006-10-02T05:50:00.000-07:00

My friend was wondering why Saint Thomas Aquinas is not one of my favorite saints along with Saint Rita of Cascia and the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague.

Come to think of it, why not really? The fact is, I do believe I owe a lot from Saint Thomas.

Like Saint Rita of Cascia and the Infant Jesus of Prague, Saint Thomas Aquinas is truly one of the special saints in my life if only because I spend my elementary and high school education at the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, which is the oldest university in Asia and has the official title of “The Royal Catholic University of the Philippines.”

We students were called Thomasians, and were taught the Catholic way with the guided inspiration of the teachings of Saint Thomas, considered the Patron Saint of the Catholic School.

The fact that St. Thomas is a Catholic educator makes it fitting for many Catholic Schools and educational institution to be named after him.

I do owe it to my alma mater and St. Thomas if only for the solid building and molding of a strong character within me, as a Catholic and a person in general.

On Praying the Novena

2006-09-25T06:59:00.000-07:00

How do you say your novena to your patron saint? I mean, do you say it over and over again, 9 day cycle after 9 day cycle?

In my case, there are times when I both say the novenas to Saint Rita of Cascia and the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague. And I even used to say both novenas endlessly, one novena period immediately after another.

I guess I tend to do this whenever I feel I need to ask for much help and intercession regarding one particular important intention or request.

In my opinion, incessant praying is one way of making your message across, that you really need the powerful intercession of whomever patron saint you are praying to.

Albeit I decided that for impossible and really difficult cases, I would say the novena to Saint Rita of Cascia. And for daily protection and requests, I say my prayers to the Infant Jesus of Prague.

Honestly, I do fee that it does not matter how frequent you say the novena of your personal saint. What matters is the sincerity and wholeheartedness of your act of prayer. Even a short prayer, if said with love and faith, will surely be heard.

Reasons For Praying

2006-09-22T07:40:00.000-07:00

There are many reasons why a person pray to God or say the novena of his personal saint. I myself pray to the Lord, and say the novena to Saint Rita of Cascia or the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague for many various reasons.

It can be a prayer of joy and gratitude, a prayer of intent or a pleading for a favor. A prayer can also be intended to say you are sorry and ask for forgiveness from the Lord. It can also be a prayer requesting for wisdom and discernment.

I pray and recite fervently the novena of Saint Rita of Cascia and the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague because I would like to ask for their intercession regarding a request or favor from the Lord.

Whatever the reasons for saying our prayers may be - they may be very important reasons or just trite ones – such prayers must be said in a proper way. Our prayers must possess the qualities of sincerity, clarity and simplicity. When we pray, it must be done fervently and straight from our hearts.

We must also remember that prayers and novenas are a way of effectively talking and conversing to the Lord and the saints. So, even if it is like we are just talking to them, we would have to convey our message with the respect and adoration that they deserve.

On Religious Statues and Items

2006-09-18T03:37:00.000-07:00

Does anyone of my good readers have a small sized image of Saint Rita of Cascia and the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague?

I am hoping that any one might be generous enough to give me as a present any of the images of Saint Rita and Infant Jesus.

I am really serious - this may be a bit straightforward or even inappropriate, but I am just following a saying that it is much better to receive images or statues of saints or any other religious items such as saint medals and guardian angel pins for that matter that to buy them. This makes the item more precious and important.

I am currently in Israel, and although I have not really looked around in churches like in St. Anthony's Church, I am sure that it is difficult for me to find such items. Unless of course, if I would go to Jerusalem or Bethlehem where Christian and Catholic items abound. I am sure it would be easier to find the statues of Saint Rita of Cascia and Infant Jesus of Prague there.

Does anyone know where to find Christian items such as angel pins and patron saint medals in Tel Aviv?

September 8 - Birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary

2006-09-08T09:51:00.000-07:00

While this is a site for Saint Rita of Cascia and the Infant Jesus of Prague - I am sure it is just okay (and fitting) that I greet here Mama Mary today, September 8 as I am also sure that the whole Catholic World is celebrating the Birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

In honor of her birthday, I intend to say the Holy Rosary tonight being a normal custom of many Catholics.

Happy Birthday, Mama Mary!

A Saint's Statue or Likeness

2006-08-31T09:32:00.001-07:00

What is the popular on this issue: Do you need to stand, kneel or be in front of the statue or any likeness of your patron saint when you pray to him or say the novena?

Unfortunately, inasmuch as I want to have a statue of the Saint Rita of Cascia or the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague whenever I say their novenas and pray to them for my intentions or request for their intercessions.

Well, many novenas indeed require that you should have the statue of your saint for your novena to be more effective. It is said that you somehow are able to convey more your prayers and intention when you say them in front of your saint’s likeness.

The most that I could have when it comes to the likeness of Saint Rita of Cascia and the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague are pictures. I have a picture of the Patroness of the Impossible Cases which I clipped from a magazine. I gaze on it while I say the novena to her. While with the Infant, I look at his picture in front of the novena booklet whenever I pray to him.

I believe that what matters really is not whether you have your saints’ statues – what is more important is the sincere and fervent means of praying to them, whenever you want to say your intentions or express your gratitude for their intercession.

My Personal Intercessors to the Lord

2006-08-25T14:14:00.000-07:00

From time to time I come across in the internet amazing stories of miracles arising from one’s devotion to his or her Patron Saint (mine is Saint Rita of Cascia and Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague).

A miracle, however great or insignificant, is a miracle coming from God, like a blessing given to us through the help and intercession of the saints.

How do you pray the novena of your saint?

In my case, this is how I pray to Saint Rita of Cascia or the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague. Whenever I request or pray for my intentions, I fervently say the novena over and over until my prayers are heard. Or sometimes I just say the novena without any particular request being mentioned, except the usual expression of gratitude.

But most of the time I mention an intention, or even several ones. Very common requests such as having safe days ahead, or good health for myself and the family, or financial provisions.

Some are heard with positive results – others, well perhaps what I am praying for may not really be for my good.

Still, I am thankful that Saint Rita of Cascia and Infant Jesus of Prague are my “hardworking” intercessors to God.

Church of Saint Anthony

2006-08-19T07:42:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture of the Saint Anthony's Church in the White
City of Jaffa in Israel.

I wish there is also a Church here for Saint Rita of Cascia and Infant Jesus of Prague.

Anyway, the Saint Anthony's Church is very popular to Catholics and Christians alike in Tel Aviv.

There are even Saturday masses celebrated for those who can not attend the Sunday masses.

I will be posting some Church photos here. If you can lending me your own photos of Churches in the United States or all over the world, especially that of Saint Rita of Cascia or Infant Jesus of Prague, it will very much be appreciated.

My Personal Prayer to Infant Jesus of Prague

2006-08-16T10:42:00.000-07:00

Like with Saint Rita of Cascia, I also composed a personal prayer to Infant Jesus of Prague, a modification of a novena prayer to Him.

I am publishing it here for everyone who might wish to adopt it as their short prayer to Infant Jesus.

Infant Jesus of Prague
My dear sweet Infant Jesus
Look down upon me with so much love
and understanding.

You are so powerful
please assist me in my needs

(Say the Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be)

Hear my petition and prayers,
Dear Infant Jesus
And please grant me the intention that I now pray to You..
(say your intention)
Please grant me this grace if it is according to Your will.
I have so much faith in You
Please have mercy on me. Amen

If you wish to share your personal prayers to the Infant Jesus of Prague, Saint Rita of Cascia or any other saints, please do send them here to be published.

Spreading Information on Saint Rita and Infant Jesus

2006-08-11T23:46:00.000-07:00

In my previous posts, I always mention how saints have helped me in my prayers of intentions and how thru their powerful intercessions, the Lord God has granted a good number of them.

And for this, I am truly grateful to Saint Rita of Cascia and the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague. And to reciprocate their generous assistance and intercession, I try my best to spread information about them, tell the stories of their miracles and give away their prayers and novenas to relatives and friends.

If by chance, your Patron Saints are also Saint Rita of Cascia or the Infant Jesus of Prague, please join me in spreading forth their life stories and miracles.

I list here some sites, emails, and addresses on which Catholics may be able to know more about them, reach appropriate authorities and groups devoted to them, and perhaps inquire about copies of books, pictures, novenas, medals, pins, what church to visit or how to send donation.

National Shrine of Saint Rita of Cascia
1166 South Broad Street
Philidelphia Pennsylvania 19146
Website: http://www.saintritashrine.org/

Infant Jesus of Prague
Procura Missioni Carmelitane
16011 Arenzano Italy
www.santuario.gesubambino.org/missioni
or
Bosi Karmelitani
Website: http://karmel.at/prog-jesu

Saint Titles and Feast Days

2006-08-08T09:34:00.000-07:00

Do you have some interesting and inspiring stories about how Saint Rita of Cascia or the Infant Jesus of Prague or any saint for that matter has acted favorably on your prayer of intention or novena?

It can be you or anybody that you know who would be willing to share inspiring tales of miracles and answered prayers with the powerful intercession of our Patron Saints.

We all know that Saint Rita of Cascia is known as the Saint of Hopeless Causes or Patroness of Impossible Cases, and that her feast day is May 22.

While the Infant Jesus of Prague is popularly known as the Miraculous Infant, and His feast day is the third week of May.

Here are some few more Saints with their titles and feast days:

Saint Jude of Thaddaeus - Patron of Desperate Cases
Feast day: October 28

Saint Teresa of Avila - Patroness of Headache Sufferers
Feast day: October 15

Saint Martin de Porres - Patron Saint of the Barbers
Feast day: November 3

On Saint Rita and Infant Jesus' Intercessions

2006-08-06T03:30:00.000-07:00

Again, another prayer of mine was heard and answered positively by the Lord God through the powerful intercession of both Saint Rita of Cascia and the Infant Jesus of Prague.

I will not be specific about the particular answered intention – it is one of those intentions which involve the material needs. Nothing divine – but still very important because its realization gives me hope to continue with my endeavor, which is the pursuit of a writing career.

Both the Infant Jesus of Prague and Saint Rita of Cascia are my personal saints that I pray to for intercession. Saint Rita is known as the Patroness of the Hopeless Cases and Saint of the Impossible Causes. While the Infant Jesus is popularly known as the Miraculous Infant.

I truly believe that Saint Rita and the Infant Jesus are powerful intercessors and mediators to the Lord. They enjoy the blessed presence of the Lord, and He is willing to listen and grant whatever deserving intentions Saint Rita and Infant Jesus whisper to Him.

I express my gratitude to them by publishing information about them, their prayers and novena so that other people may be able to know about their miracles and intercession.

To those who have nice stories to tell about Saint Rita of Cascia and the Infant Jesus of Prague, please do write me so we can feature them here.

More on Infant Jesus of Prague

2006-08-03T04:34:00.000-07:00

While this is primarily the special corner of Saint Rita of Cascia, which features everything about her, her novenas and miracles, I will also be writing on other saints.

In fact I have also written about the Infant Jesus of Prague, another powerful intercessor like Saint Rita of Cascia.

The history of the Infant Jesus of Prague is filled with numerous miracles which made people all around the world become devoted to him.

The devotion to the Infant Jesus started in the late 16th century with the Carmelite Order. In 1628, the Carmelites in Prague began their devotion to the Statue of the Infant Jesus which was given to the religious group by Princess Polixenie Lobkowitz, who had the gospel in mind – “Unless you become like one of the little children you will not be able to enter the Kingdom of Heaven (Mt. 18.3).

Since then the Statue of the Infant Jesus of Prague had brought miracles to numerous lives.

At the tabernacle of the novitiate chapel, Saint Therese Lisieux venerated the statue. Likewise, Saint Teresa Benedicta, who was a visitor to the church of the Infant Jesus at Prague, was greatly devoted to the Infant.

Anyone who wishes to suggest other saints they would like to be featured here, and has more information about Saint Rita of Cascia, please do write me.

Infant Jesus of Prague: Another Powerful Mediator

2006-07-31T04:08:00.000-07:00

I have known Saint Rita of Cascia early of this year, and begun praying to her and regularly say her novena since then.

Saint Rita of Cascia is popularly known as Patroness of the Impossible Cases and Saint of the Hopeless Causes. Likewise, she is known by the title Patroness of the Desperate Cases.

Saint Rita, I can attest, is a very powerful intercessor the the Lord - so far most of my intentions and prayers were granted by God through her assistance.

While I do consider Saint Rita of Cascia as my personal saint, I also have other favorite saints that also turn to and pray.

One of my favorite saints is the Infant Jesus of Prague. Often, I say his 9 day novena, together with my saying of Saint Rita's novena.

Here is the Novena of the Infant Jesus of Prague.

Like Saint Rita, I also can attest that the Infant Jesus is a powerful intercessor for those who pray to him for help and intercession that the Lord may grant our prayers or intentions.

Saint Rita of Cascia: For the Desperate and the Hopeless

2006-07-27T06:21:00.000-07:00

I have published two versions of Saint Rita of Cascia’s novena, hoping that some of you would be able to develop the habit and become devotees of Saint Rita.

This is one of my goals, that is, to spread much information about the Patroness of the Hopeless Causes / Saint of the Impossible Cases.

By the way, I learned that another title given to Saint Rita of Cascia is the Saint of the Desperates.

If you would notice the titles bestowed to her, you can say that she is the saint to go to and pray for assistance especially if your request is quite difficult or even impossible to achieve.

I had my share of impossible intentions, and while often, the difficult circumstances which pushed me to pray to Saint Rita of Cascia for intercession see me weak and even not fully having faith in her power as a messenger to the Lord, still I receive answers and possible results from my prayers and novena to her.

This proves that Saint Rita of Cascia is a powerful intercessor and favored saint of the Lord.

Does anyone have a miracle to share, an intention or request so difficult yet was granted through Saint Rita’s intercession?

Please we have a lot of space here – let us all hear about them.

Saint Rita of Cascia and Company: Honor, Not Worship

2006-07-23T21:14:00.000-07:00

Most of us Catholics pray to the Saints and even say regularly their novenas. I say the novena of our beloved Italian Saint Rita of Cascia, the Patroness of the Hopeless Causes and Lady Saint of the Impossible Cases.

But of course, as devout Catholic, we do not pray to the Saints to worship and idolize them – which definitely is not proper and is even a sin as taught by the Church.

Only God deserves our highest worship and praise. One of the Ten Commandments states, “I am your only God. You shall not have other gods before me.” So indeed, one may be committing a mortal sin if he idolizes and worships saints.

One good reason why we pray to the Saints is because we ask for their intercession to the Lord for our many requests and intentions. The saints are given the special tasks to be powerful intercessors to the Lord, assisting us in obtaining and receiving the grace and blessings of God.

Saint Rita of Cascia has been my best friend, and has acted many times as a powerful intercessor on my behalf.

Many of my intentions which I say when I pray to Saint Rita of Cascia and do her novena are heard and granted by the Lord God. And for this, I always try my best to propagate information about her, send out her novena and prayers to as many friends and acquaintances as possible.

We are given the privilege to invoke saints and directing to them our prayers and intentions, that we may be able to obtain them from God thru their assistance.

Saint Rita of Cascia Novena: Another Version

2006-07-15T12:22:00.000-07:00

The novena to a particular saint or patron varies as there may be several versions of the prayer of the novena. There may be the complete version, or it can be changed into a shortened one. But then, in most versions, the essense of the novena as a prayer honoring a particular saint remains.

Like in my case, I received a novena to Saint Rita of Cascia by email (this is how I was introduced to her). It was quite different in words when a compared it other version - and much shorter. Probably the sender wishes to publish a much easier to pray version of her novena.

And I wish to publish it here for everyone to appreciate:

Novena to Saint Rita of Cascia

O Lady Saint of the needy, Saint Rita
whose whispers are always heard by God
and who because of your generosity in granting intentions
is called the Patroness of the Hopeless Cases.

Help me in my petition and prayers
show me your power with the Lord,
and help me through your powerful intercession
that God hear me and grant my petition
in Jesus' name.

I promise that if God grants my petition
through your intersession, Saint Rita of Cascia,
I will praise your blessedness
and make known to everyone your help.

Before the Sacred Heart of Jesus,
I pray that you may grant (say your request).

as soon as God deems it fit. Amen

(This short novena must be prayed fervently for 9 consecutive days. Do remember to publish this prayer to Saint Rita of Cascia if your petition is fullfilled and granted.)

Saint Rita of Cascia and Other Saints: Blessed Intercessors

2006-07-13T10:44:00.000-07:00

While many Catholics among us (me included) tend to ask everyone - our family, friends, the parish priest, the sisters and nuns of our alma mater – to help by also praying with us for whatever important intention we have at the moment, we also turn to our Patron Saints for their intercession to the Lord that He may grant our requests.

We recognize the saints as an effective conveyor of our prayers, intentions, and requests to the Lord. This is what we accept - as it is indicated in most of the novenas for saints. In the first part of novena to Saint Rita of Cascia, it more or less goes – “Saint Rita of Cascia, whose pleadings before the Lord are almost always irresistible…”

This line means that saints are reliable intercessors – and anyone who prays to God for his intention or request through the saints would certainly earn God’s blessings and favors.

Most novenas request devotees to return the favor by publishing the novena and spreading information about the saint once their prayers and intentions are heard and granted.

In my case, I have always received God’s blessings through Saint Rita of Cascia’s intercession. In return, I publish information about the Patroness of Hopeless Cases through this site, and hopefully be able to attract others to become devotees of Saint Rita.

My Being Devoted to Saint Rita of Cascia: Is It Okay?

2006-07-11T10:59:00.000-07:00

Why are many Catholics devotees to saints?

Does it make sense that while the Holy Bible clearly states that “Jesus is the Only Way, Truth and Life”, still many pray to the saints for intersession to the Lord God.

Does this mean Catholics recognize the saints as another means of communicating and praying and sending forth intentions to God?

I myself am a devotee to Saint Rita of Cascia, and have been regularly saying her novena. I also publish her novena and other information about her through this site as a way of keeping my promise for all the intentions granted. And all my prayers heard by the Lord through her intercession.

Would my being a devotee to Saint Rita of Cascia mean that I am sinning since as a devout Catholic myself, I do recognize Jesus as the Only Way to the Father?

Personally, I am careful about this – so I always declare that saints for me are like true friends whom one can count on.

Saints are not to be worshipped. Respect is more that they deserve. I believe they are more like messengers to God, helping us get our prayers and intentions across to Him.

Saints for me are like Jesus’ assistants when it comes to sending messages to the Lord.

For me, it is okay to be a devotee to Saint Rita of Cascia - she has been a wonderful messenger for me to the Lord, and many of my prayers have been heard and granted so far – through her help and in Jesus’ name.

More Trivia on Saint Rita of Cascia

2006-07-07T12:06:00.000-07:00

Here is a few trivia on Saint Rita of Cascia, the Patroness of the Hopeless and the Saint of the Impossible Cases.

Did you know that aside from parishes and churches, many schools, places and religious establishments were named in honor of Saint Rita of Cascia?

Many schools and colleges in the United States of America are named after our beloved saint. In Illinois are two schools named in honor of her such as Saint Rita of Cascia High School in Chicago and Saint Rita of Cascia Catholic School in Aurora.

There is also the Saint Rita Primary school in the state of Wisconsin.

Likewise, there is a nice place of retreat in Italy, Sanctuary of Saint Rita in Roccaporena, was built in Roccaporena, also named in honor of our beloved saint.

The sanctuary honors Saint Rita by showcasing the saint’s blessed life in this part of Roccaporena, her place of birth.

On a Growing Saint Rita of Cascia and Miracles

2006-07-04T07:59:00.000-07:00

I have heard of a story about a Filipino owner whose clay image of Saint Rita of Cascia, the Patroness of the Hopeless and Impossible Cases, growing slowly but steadily.

The image was a little over a foot tall, but the owner noticed that image was growing in size.

He took the measuring tape, and checked for the image’s length. Indeed, his Saint Rita of Cascia statue (which he got from a trip to Italy) has grown – and added at least two more inches.

What is more surprising for him is that along with the miracle of the growing statue, he seemed to have received the gift of healing. And this gift he has begun to heal the sick people in his hometown.

And he have been very vocal in saying that because of his prayers to Saint Rita of Cascia and his desire to help the poor, he was blessed by the Lord with the ability to heal.

I have heard about similar miracles stories like this. And often time I do not know how to take such stories. More often than not, I take it with a grain of salt but always with an open mind.

In these modern times, miracles that are religious in nature are often met with indifference and doubt.

Nonetheless, let us be reminded that Saints exists because of miracles. And these miracles are examined, verified and confirmed by the concerned authorities. Which means that miracles do exist and are recognized by the Church, even in these times of skepticism.

Saint Rita of Cascia as My Patron Saint

2006-06-27T02:48:00.000-07:00

I am a devotee of Saint Rita of Cascia, I say my intentions to her, and ask for her intercession to the Lord in my behalf.

And I continiously say the novena as a promise to Saint Rita of Cascia.

But then, I am not exclusive to her. I mean I also pray (and prayed) to other Saints like Saint Jude (another favorite one) and Saint Pilomena - albeit I pray to them occasionally. Unlike with Saint Rita of Cascia, to whom I could say I am a 100% devotee.

Would anyone say it is okay for me to have other Saints to pray to even if I spend less time on them compared to my devotion to Saint Rita? I mean - will my prayers and words of intentions to the other saints be appreciated by them even if I am really much more of a devotee to Saint Rita of Cascia?

Or is it appropriate that anyone should devote totally to one patron saint, which in my case is Saint Rita of Cascia?

I always hear the saying that "whenever one is an a precarious, desparate or any unwanted situation - he could call for help from all the saints in heaven."

Could anyone comment on this?

Veneration of Saint Rita of Cascia and Other Saints

2006-06-25T09:23:00.000-07:00

As Roman Catholic, I was taught not to worship and idolize saints (Saint Rita of Cascia included), but only venerate them.

By veneration, I mean show respect or reverence. Saints are special intercessors to the Lord, and while I firmly believe the Jesus Christ is the Only Way, the Truth and the Life - I also believe that saints function like His "assistants" should we wish to convey messages to God, or if we wish to relay prayers of intentions.

I am a devotee to Saint Rita of Cascia, and I continiously say her novena as part of my promise to her should my intentions get fullfilled.

I also create this blog, "Saint Rita of Cascia", because only because I promised it too, but more because I truly believe that she is a powerful intercessor, and that more should know about her.

Still, I do not worship or idolize Saint Rita of Cascia because it is not proper as a Catholic, but instead venerate her holiness and try to understand her life as a model of a great Christian.

And indeed, Saint Rita of Cascia and all other saints are there as examples and guides for us, helping us live with the Lord in our midst.

Saint Rita of Cascia National Shrine

2006-06-21T08:23:00.000-07:00

Saint Rita of Cascia, the Patroness of Hopeless Cases - and the Patron Saint of the Impossible has many churches and shrines in the United States and other parts of the world.

In the United States of America, if you wish to visit the Shrine of Saint Rita of Cascia, it is located in the State of Pensylvania.

Its Complete Address is:

1166 South Broad Street,
Philadelphia, Pensylvania 19146

The Shrine started out as a parish for Italian immigrants and settlers in Philadelphia. The Augustinian friars set up a foundation that would fill up their needs. A patron saint was needed, and they chose Saint Rita of Cascia, which is a beloved Italian saint.

The National Shrine of Saint Rita of Cascia has a strong and steadily growing followers and devotees, both from the local parish and from other places and states. The shrine is open from sun up to sun down every day of the week.

Services offered by the National Shrine of Saint Rita includes daily masses and the Novena to Saint Rita.

The Shrine also has a souvenir corner which sells Saint Rita of Cascia items like novenas, medals, and statues.