Rita was a female saint living during the 14th and 15th century in Italy. Although she was married at any early age to an abusive husband, with whom her relationship lasted for more than 18 years, she was a model wife who prayed constantly for her husband. Even after her husband died in a feud, she discouraged her sons from trying to seek revenge. Following their death, Rita entered the convent in Cascia. Today, St. Rita is known as the patron saint for abused women, mourning wives and impossible causes.
Many women turn to her during times of despair, after a death in the family or even after a divorce. St Rita Medal β Sterling Silver with 18 in. Chain β Engravable. St Rita Medal β Sterling Silver with 20 in. Rita of Cascia is a unique saint, in that during her life she was a wife, a mother, and later, a nun. Many saints we learn about were called by God to either marriage and children or the consecrated religious life; however, there have been some throughout time who have been blessed with living out both vocations.
Rita is one such saint. Born in in the city of Roccaporena in Cascia, a republic in the Umbrian valley of Italy, Margherita Lotti was the daughter of noble parents.
Her mother, Amata Ferri, and her father, Antonio Lotti, were members of Conciliatore di Cristo Peacemakers of Christ , who served through charitable works. Rita was baptized in the church of St. Augustine and became familiar with the Augustinian nuns of St. Mary Magdalene during her youth. She was attracted to their way of life; however, she was unable to pursue this vocation. Her parents arranged a marriage for her to Paolo Mancini, a nobleman who would provide her with safety and security.
They married when St. Rita was twelve years old. However, in addition to being wealthy, Paolo was also quick-tempered and immoral, gaining for himself many enemies in the area.
