Christian Men and Women

Saint Rose of Lima

Rose was born Peru in South America. She was given the nickname "Rosa" because when she was a baby, a servant claimed to have seen her face transform into a rose, hence her name, "Rosa."

Rose was very beautiful and admired by many. She cut off her hair against the objections of her friends and her family. Rose would often say, "Only beauty of the soul is important." She was very upset that she was so beautiful, and hurt herself to help others.

She spent many hours praying to God and taking Holy Communion, which she received daily. Her days were filled with acts of charity and hard work for the poor. Rose helped the sick and hungry around her community. She would bring them to her home and take care of them. Rose sold her fine needlework, grew beautiful flowers, and would take them to market to help her family when they became poor. Her careful lace and embroidery helped to support her home, while her nights were devoted to prayer in a little grotto which she had built. Often Jesus appeared to her as a small child and would tell her how pleased he was with her kind and considerate acts.

Rose died on August 30, 1617, at the age of 31. Her funeral was attended by all the public authorities of Lima, and she is the first saint of the Americas.

Some of the virtues that Rose displayed throughout her life were Restraint (Temperance) and Faith, Hope, and Love (Charity).