The Little Flower: The Life and Legacy of Saint Therese of Lisieux
Saint Frances of Rome, also known as Saint Francesca Romana, was a religious leader and mystic who lived in the 14th and 15th centuries in Rome, Italy. She was born on March 16, 1384, and passed away on March 9, 1440. She was canonized on May 11, 1608, and her feast day is celebrated on March 9th.
Frances of Rome was a remarkable woman who lived a life dedicated to God and her fellow human beings. She was born into a noble family and was well-educated, but at the age of 12, she chose to dedicate herself to God and enter the religious life. She eventually became a Benedictine Oblate, which meant that she lived as a lay person in the world while still following the rule of a monastic order.
Throughout her life, Saint Frances of Rome was known for her deep devotion to God and her compassionate nature. She devoted herself to helping the poor and sick, and founded a community of women known as the "Obriatrici" to continue her work. This community was dedicated to helping women in need, particularly those who were widowed or otherwise in need of assistance.
One of the most interesting aspects of Saint Frances of Rome's life was her experiences of mystical visions and ecstasies. She had a deep connection with God and was able to receive divine guidance and wisdom through her spiritual experiences. Her writings, which include accounts of her mystical experiences, are considered some of the most important works of Christian mysticism from the late medieval period.
Saint Frances of Rome is the patron saint of drivers, automobile workers, and aviators. This is because of a vision she had of angels guiding her carriage through the streets of Rome during a particularly difficult period in her life.
Saint Frances of Rome was a remarkable woman who lived a life dedicated to God and her fellow human beings. She is remembered as a model of spiritual devotion and selflessness, and her feast day on March 9th is a celebration of her life and teachings.