St. Frances of Rome

“A married woman must, when called upon, quit her devotions to God at the altar to find Him in her household affairs.” – St. Frances of Rome

St. Frances of Rome is honored as a model of holiness both as a wife and mother and later as a religious foundress. Her feast day, celebrated on March 9, commemorates her life of prayer, charity, and balance between the duties of family and devotion to God.

A Wife, Mother, and Servant of God

Frances was born in 1384 in Rome to a noble family. From a young age, she desired to become a nun, but in obedience to her parents, she married Lorenzo Ponziani, a wealthy and noble Roman soldier. Their marriage was a loving and faithful one, blessed with children.

Frances balanced her responsibilities as a wife and mother with a deep life of prayer and service, demonstrating that holiness is fully possible in family life.

A Life of Charity in Times of Crisis

Rome in her day was plagued by war, famine, and disease. Frances opened her home to the poor, the sick, and the hungry, turning her noble household into a center of charity.

When plague struck the city, Frances personally cared for the sick, often risking her own life. She would walk the streets bringing food and comfort to those in desperate need.

Mystical Visions and Deep Prayer

Throughout her life, Frances experienced visions of angels, particularly her guardian angel, whom she saw constantly at her side. Her mystical life deepened her charity, humility, and detachment from worldly things.

Her life was a constant union of action and contemplation, showing that spiritual growth is possible amidst the demands of daily life.

Founder of the Oblates of Mary

After the death of her husband, Frances founded the Oblates of Mary, a community of women living in the world but dedicated to prayer, service, and holiness. This was one of the earliest forms of a lay religious community, blending family life with spiritual commitments.

A Legacy of Holiness in Family and Service

St. Frances of Rome died in 1440, having lived a life that beautifully united her love for God with her love for her family and the poor.

She was canonized in 1608 and is a shining example of how holiness can flourish in marriage, family life, and service to others.

Patroness of Widows and Homemakers

St. Frances of Rome is the patron saint of widows, homemakers, and motorist drivers (due to her vision of her guardian angel lighting her way), offering a model of balance between the contemplative life and active charity.

A Witness to Holiness in Everyday Life

St. Frances of Rome’s life reminds the faithful that the path to sainthood is found not only in convents or monasteries but also in the kitchen, the home, and the streets—wherever love is lived in service to Christ.

St. Frances of Rome, pray for us!