Saint Frances of Rome
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Saint Frances of Rome, born Francesca Bussa de' Leoni, was an Italian noblewoman who lived a life of holiness amidst the tumult of Rome's political landscape. Married at the age of twelve, she continued to lead a life dedicated to charity and prayer, founding the Oblates of Tor de' Specchi, a community for women living in the world but committed to the Benedictine Rule. Known for her visions and mystical experiences, she was also renowned for her charitable works, particularly during the plagues and wars that afflicted Rome. She balanced her family life with her spiritual pursuits, embodying a model of sanctity for laypeople.
Biography
Birth
Frances was born in 1384 in Rome, in the Papal States.
Early Life
From a young age, she showed signs of piety and spiritual inclination, despite her noble upbringing.
Occupation
As a noblewoman, she managed her household but sought to serve God through her charitable activities.
Vocation
Though married, she lived a semi-monastic life, eventually founding the Oblates of Tor de' Specchi, a religious society for women.
Death
Frances of Rome died peacefully on March 9, 1440, in Rome, surrounded by her family and the community she founded.
Significant events
- Founded the Oblates of Tor de' Specchi in 1425, providing a way for laywomen to live the Benedictine life in the world.
- Experienced numerous mystical visions, including one where she was guided by an angel, a constant companion in her spiritual life.
- Known for her miraculous acts, including feeding the poor through the multiplication of bread during famines.
Death
Frances passed away from natural causes in Rome, leaving a legacy of charity, prayer, and devotion.
Canonization
Servant of God
The process to recognize her as a Servant of God would have begun posthumously, with investigations into her life and virtues.
Venerable
Declared Venerable due to her life of heroic virtue, though specific dates are not clearly documented.
Beatification
Beatified and canonized in the same year, 1608, by Pope Paul V, in recognition of her sanctity and the miracles attributed to her.
Canonization
Canonized on May 29, 1608, after miracles were confirmed, including the healing of a woman with a tumor.
Miracles
Miracle for beatification
Not specifically documented as both beatification and canonization occurred in 1608.
Miracle for canonization
The healing of a woman with a tumor was one of the miracles recognized for her canonization.
Other notable miracles
- Multiplication of bread to feed the poor.
Patronage
Frances of Rome is the patron saint of automobile drivers, widows, Roman housewives, and those who have lost children.
Feast day
The feast day of Saint Frances of Rome is celebrated on March 9.
Veneration
She is venerated particularly in Rome, where her life's work is continued through the Oblates of Tor de' Specchi. Her shrine is at the Church of Santa Francesca Romana, and she is remembered through various devotional practices.
Books
Written about the saint
- [The Life of Saint Frances of Rome by Mary Fabyan Windeatt - 1953]
- [Saint Frances of Rome by Mother Mary Dolores, O.S.B. - 1915]
Written by the saint
No known writings by Saint Frances of Rome exist.
External links
- Catholic Online - Saint Frances of Rome
- Wikipedia - Frances of Rome
- Franciscan Media - Saint Frances of Rome