Saint Rose (Patron of Vanity)

Saint Rose was the first Canonized Saint of the Americas born in the year 1586 A.D. Rose is often depicted in images holding a rose in one hand and a Crucifix in the other. St. Rose was always a beautiful yet humble and pious woman. As a young child she would nail her hair to a wall to keep from falling asleep in prayer. Rose was quite serious about her Faith in Christ as she constantly begged her parents to allow her to join the Convent. Being somewhat reasonable, they allowed her to practice as a Dominican Tertiary and did not bother her as she endlessly prayed, while afflicting herself with the wounds of Jesus Christ.
Saint Rose was affectionately called the "Little Rose" as her mother was upset that she cut her beautiful hair. Rose believed her hair was a symbol of vanity and wanted nothing to do with it. In turn, Rose's mother forced her to wear a headdress made of roses. Underneath Saint Rose would wear a crown of nails in emulation of Christ. Not only was Saint Rose exceptionally devout, she was also given visions of The Infant Christ, The Virgin Mother and several Angels. Her visions are described as the Mystical Marriage.
Amongst her Divine Visions, Rose was able to heal the sick and grow flowers out of season. Many people living near her believed she was a witch. Her family also condemned her and sent her away. Rose died at the age of 31 from a strange ailment that was never diagosed.

Memorial: August 23rd

Also Known as: St. Rose of Lima

Born: 1586, Lima, Peru

Died: August, 1670, Lima Peru

Beautified: April, 1668 by Pope Clement IX

Canonized: April, 1671 by Pope Clement X

Additional Patronages: Embroiderers, Gardeners and Florists

Why she is venerated by the Holy Roman Catholic Church:

Visionary: Recieved visions of the Holy Infant

Stigmatic: Severe and constant pains in her wrists, ankles and head

Mystic and Miracle Worker: Able to grow assorted flowers out of season

Life of a Saint: Dominican Tertiary

Remarkably devoted to her vow of Chastity

Sold her beautiful flowers and needlework to support her family and the poor

First Saint born in the Americas

Founder of Social Work in Lima