This saint asked God for “death rather than sin” and her boys died at the age of 16 of dysentery

                        May 22 --------- St. Rita of Cascia

St. Rita, born in the 14th century, married at a very early age due to her parents demands even though she had repeatedly asked to enter the convent. 

Unfortunately, her husband was a violent, immoral man who had many enemies in their city.  Rita endured his insults, abuses and infidelities for many years and finally, with humility and perseverance converted her cruel husband who was to die at the hands of his enemies.

Their twin sons , wanting to exact revenge for their father's death, became obsessed with carrying out the "Vendetta".  When Rita tried to convince them to give up their plans, she met with obstinacy.  Her only hope was to be found in prayer for she feared that they would lose their souls.  Hearing a mother's fervent prayers, God intervened and the boys died at the age of 16 of the dysentery.  St. Rita was consoled knowing that her sons were well prepared for death .

St. Rita shares the motto, "Death rather than sin" with St. Aloysius Gonzaga.  But in her case, she died thrice.  Any mother who has lost a child knows what this means.  Let us be resolved to ask Our Lady for the grace to adopt this motto without fear or tepidity.