A Dominican nunnery was founded in Italy in honor of the patron saint of South America after St. Rose of Lima’s intercession caused miracles to occur in Italy and she was canonized in 1671. Everyone in this congregation goes by the name Rose.
St. Rose was a college run by the Dominicans. Though it was originally observed on August 30, the Catholic Church now observes her feast day on August 23.
“St. Rose of Lima, who is both our patron saint and mother, gave us all the name Rose. Mother Rosa Mónica Gamonal, prioress of the Dominican convent of St. Rose of Lima, said to EWTN News that on the day we obtain the holy habit, they also alter our names; they give us all the name of Rose, according to tradition.
Mother Giovanna Caterina Boldona established the Congregation of the Dominican Sisters of St. Rose of Lima in Finalborgo, northern Italy, in 1677. She was moved by this saint from the New World, and she chose to follow her spiritual path by committing her life to God in a convent with several other young ladies.
“Our founding mother grew thrilled and felt the call to form a congregation so we could carry on what St. Rose has left us, what she has given down to us, after learning about her life and charism. Mother Rosa Mónica related how she continued her labor of self-giving love, love for Christ, and neighborly love.
The prioress said that St. Rose of Lima became well-loved as a result of the miracles that occurred in Italy thanks to her intercession.
Four of the many miracles that were claimed to support her canonization were appropriately performed in Italy. Especially those who are already beyond hope due to terminal cancer. They had pleaded with Rose for assistance at that time of severe anguish and suffering, and she had responded by healing them entirely, the nun said.
Prior to deciding to canonize her, Pope Clement X asked for a miracle, which she also detailed.
Prior to canonizing her, even Pope Clement X said, “Rose, if you truly are a saint, you have to give me a sign. It should shower roses, please. The pope thought he had seen this shower of flowers. He proceeded to canonize her after being completely persuaded of her holiness, the prioress recalled.
The sister also said that members of her congregation work in slums in Brazil and numerous locations in Italy. They provide aid to people in need while residing in the monastery that is housed within the saint’s shrine in the heart of Lima.
St. Rose of Lima, according to Mother Rosa Mónica, is a model of holiness for many people in modern society. She “teaches us to gaze at Christ, walk with Christ, and for each day to be an act of faith, an act of love of Christ,” she stated.
This story was first published by ACI Prensa, CNA’s Spanish-language news partner. It has been translated and adapted by CNA.