Life of St. Rita of Cascia, O.S.A.: from the Italian

"Life of St. Rita of Cascia, O.S.A." by Richard Connolly is a detailed biographical account written in the early 20th century. The book narrates the life and events of St. Rita, a saint revered for her sanctity and devotion, exploring her extraordinary experiences from her childhood in Rocca Porena through her life as a wife and eventually a nun. The author delves into Rita's virtues and the trials she faced, positioning her as an exemplar of grace and perseverance amid adversity. The beginning of the book provides a rich context about the historical setting of Cascia, St. Rita's birthplace, and the challenges of the time, including political unrest and moral decline. It introduces her parents, their piety, and the miraculous circumstances of her conception and birth, setting the stage for a life marked by divine favor. The opening chapters highlight Rita's early virtues, her love of prayer, and her struggles with her earthly responsibilities as she yearns for a cloistered life devoted to God. As Rita matures, the narrative foreshadows her eventual marriage and the subsequent trials she will face, grounding her spiritual journey in the realities of her world.