Liturgical Calendar

Saint of the day

Saint Rosalia (c.1130-c.1160)

Saint Rosalia had a famous lineage, she was a descendant of Charlemagne. She was born in Sicily, and turned away from earthly pleasures to God when she was a young girl. Rosalia left the comforts of her home to reside in a cave. On the walls of her new dwelling, she wrote "I, Rosalia, daughter of Sinibald, Lord of Roses and Quisquina, have taken the resolution to live in this cave for the love of my Lord, Jesus Christ." She spent her life in devoted solitude, and died alone in 1160. During a time of plague and great suffering, her relics were discovered and paraded through Palermo, Italy. Soon afterward, the plague ended, with the intercession of Rosalia credited.

Reflection

Saint Rosalia spent her life alone, developing in virtue and union with God. In our busy and demanding culture, we often forget the tremendous value of spending time in solitude. In solitude, we more clearly discern the voice of God and more readily accept God's love for us. We come to know ourselves better and come to understand God more. Do you ever have solitude? What is it like?

Prayer

Dear Jesus, please allow me to know you, and through knowing you come to know myself.