Rita was born in the year 1381 in the village of very close to Cascia in central Italy. She was an only child and her parents were older when they had her. As a young girl, Rita greatly desired to become a nun; however, her parents had other plans. Her parents arranged a marriage for her, and Rita agreed to her parents’ decision. They had twin boys and Rita faithfully lived as a wife and as a mother. Her husband, however, had a temper and was often unfaithful to her. Their boys had poor health, but they lived happily. Rita’s husband was tragically killed one day as he was ambushed by members of the town on his way back from work. The family was devastated, and Rita’s boys soon were plotting their father’s revenge. As it happened, the death of both boys from natural causes a short time later removed them from physical and spiritual danger. Now alone in the world and without family responsibilities, the Lord once again called to Rita to consider a religious vocation. At the age of 36, Rita became an Augustinian Nun. Much of her life as a nun is hidden with God. We do know, however, that one day, when she was about sixty years of age, Rita was meditating before an image of Christ crucified and suddenly a small wound appeared on her forehead, as though a thorn from the crown that encircled Christ’s head had loosed itself and penetrated her own flesh. She bore this painful wound for 15 years with love and joy, giving thanks to God for having a small share in our Lord’s Passion. Many favors and miracles were granted when friends asked her to pray for them or a special intention. Having faithfully and lovingly responded to God’s many invitations to her over her 76 years, Rita died on May 22, 1457. Her body lies in a Church in central Italy and is incorrupt. Alongside St. Jude, St. Rita is a patroness of impossible cases.