St. Rose of Lima
First Saint of the Americas
Feast Day: August 23
Biography
St. Rose of Lima (1586–1617), born Isabel Flores de Oliva, was the first person born in the Western Hemisphere to be canonized. Of Spanish descent, she was born in Lima, Peru, and was so beautiful that she was nicknamed 'Rose.' To discourage suitors and maintain her consecrated virginity, she cut her hair, rubbed her face with pepper, and wore a crown of thorns hidden under flowers. She lived as a Dominican tertiary, spending hours in prayer and practicing extraordinary penances. She cared for the sick and poor, setting up an infirmary in her family's home. She experienced intense mystical graces and terrible spiritual desolation. She died at age thirty-one. Canonized in 1671 by Pope Clement X.
Patronages
Symbols
Prayer
St. Rose of Lima, first flower of sanctity in the Americas, help me to see true beauty in holiness and to serve Christ in the poor. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Asking for Intercession
Catholics ask saints to pray with us and for us, as we ask friends on earth. St. Rose of Lima, who lives in God's presence, intercedes before His throne. Speak from your heart: “St. Rose of Lima, please pray for me…” You may also pray the prayer above or include this intention in your Rosary.