Saint Rita of Cascia, nicknamed "the saint of impossible causes", is an emblematic figure of faith, hope and perseverance. Her intercession is particularly invoked at times when human solutions seem non-existent. Renowned for her life of devotion, humility and forgiveness, Saint Rita is a source of inspiration for those going through insurmountable trials. The novena to Saint Rita is a nine-day prayer, addressed with faith and trust, to ask for special graces, miracles, or the resolution of desperate situations.
The life of Saint Rita: a model of faith and perseverance
Saint Rita was born in 1381 in the village of Roccaporena, Italy. From an early age, she showed a deep desire to dedicate herself to God. However, in obedience to her parents, she married a violent and angry man. Rita transformed this difficult marriage into a mission of love and forgiveness, praying constantly for the conversion of her husband, who eventually changed his life before being murdered.
After the death of her husband and two sons, Rita joined the Augustinian convent in Cascia. There she lived a life of prayer, penance and service, receiving a thorn-shaped stigmata on her forehead, a symbol of her union with the Passion of Christ. She died in 1457, and many miracles were attributed to her intercession.
Why pray the novena to Saint Rita?
For hopeless causes: Saint Rita is invoked for situations where all seems lost, whether in personal, family, or professional life.
For physical and spiritual healing: Her novena is often prayed to ask for miracles of healing or inner reconciliation.
For strength and perseverance: Saint Rita inspires one to persevere in faith, even in the face of the most difficult challenges.
For finding peace and forgiveness: Her life is a powerful example of forgiveness, particularly in complex or conflicted relationships.
The benefits of the novena to Saint Rita
A source of comfort: She brings peace and serenity in times of distress.
Abundant graces: Many of the faithful testify to miracles obtained through her intercession.
Renewed faith: Prayer strengthens trust in God and in his mercy.
An encouragement to forgive: It invites us to follow Saint Rita's example by practising forgiveness and reconciliation.
How to pray the novena to Saint Rita:
Prepare a specific intention: Choose a situation or problem that you would like to entrust to Saint Rita.
Recite the daily prayer : Each day, pray with faith and perseverance, expressing your request.
Accompany your prayer with acts of faith : Meditate on the life of Saint Rita and participate in a Mass or an act of charity.
Express your gratitude : Thank Saint Rita for her intercession, even before receiving an answer.
Daily Novena Prayer
O glorious Saint Rita, advocate of impossible causes,
You who so often interceded for those in despair,
I come to you with faith and humility,
Trusting my needs and sufferings to You:
(specify your request here).
Holy Rita, you who knew how to transform trials into opportunities for grace,
Help me to find peace and strength in this situation.
Hold for me the grace I ask for, if it is in accordance with God's will.
Thank you for your love and constant prayer.
I promise to spread your name and bear witness to your goodness
Living with faith and gratitude to God.
Amen.
The intentions for each day of the novena
Day 1: For faith and hope
"Saint Rita, help me to keep trusting in God, even in the darkest moments."
Day 2: For broken relationships
"Saint Rita, intercede for reconciliation in my relationships and help me to forgive."
Day 3: For inner peace
"Saint Rita, calm my mind and fill my heart with serenity and confidence."
Day 4: For the healing of the sick
"Saint Rita, pray for the healing of those who are suffering, physically or spiritually."
Day 5: For hopeless causes
"Saint Rita, take under your protection this situation that is beyond me and grant me the grace I ask for."
Day 6: For strength in trials
"Saint Rita, give me courage and perseverance in the face of life's difficulties."
Day 7: For protection and support
"Saint Rita, watch over me and guide my steps on the path of faith and justice."
Day 8: For gratitude and praise
"Saint Rita, thank you for your constant presence and intercession in my life."
Day 9: For surrender to God's will
"Saint Rita, help me to accept God's will with love and trust, in all things."
Conclusion: A prayer of hope and transformation
The novena to Saint Rita is a powerful source of comfort and miracles. By praying with faith and perseverance, you invite this beloved saint to walk beside you and guide you through your trials.
Confide your worries to Saint Rita, and let her example of love and faith transform your life. May her intercession bring you the graces and blessings you need.
