Saint Roch

Feast Day: August 16

Saint Roch was born toward the end of the thirteenth century in Montpellier, France, to noble and devout parents. According to tradition, at his birth a red cross appeared on his chest, a sign that he would endure great suffering during his life.

From an early age, he showed a particular love for his neighbour. When his parents died, Roch was about twenty years old. He distributed his possessions among the poor and entrusted the vast lands and villages he had inherited to his uncle. He then dressed as a poor pilgrim and left his homeland for Rome.

As soon as he entered Italy, he encountered the plague ravaging many cities. He devoted himself to burying the dead and caring for the sick, many of whom, according to tradition, were healed through the sign of the Holy Cross.

Eventually, Roch himself contracted the disease and suffered from a painful wound in his side. He withdrew to a forest outside the city, where he endured terrible suffering in solitude.

After Saint Roch had borne these bitter pains, God granted him healing and inspired him to return to his homeland.

At that time, however, civil unrest was troubling the region, and his uncle had become its governor. Because Roch returned dressed as a poor pilgrim and was unrecognizable, he was mistaken for a spy.

He was arrested and brought before his uncle, who was administering his property but did not recognize him. Roch was therefore thrown into a dark prison.

For five years, he bore this trial patiently, devoting himself to fasting, prayer, and mortification.

When he sensed that his death was approaching, he asked for a priest, who administered the sacraments to him.

According to tradition, as his righteous soul departed, a brilliant light filled the prison. Beside his body, a tablet was found bearing these words:

« Whoever is struck by the plague and turns to my servant Roch will be saved through his intercession. »

Saint Roch died in 1327.

His grandmother and his uncle hurried to the prison. His grandmother recognized her grandson by the red cross on his chest and embraced him, shedding many tears over the loss of her beloved grandson, whom she regarded as a precious treasure.

His uncle also recognized him by the same sign and wept bitterly. In repentance for what had happened, he built a church in Saint Roch’s honour so that his memory would be preserved.

May his prayers be with us.

Source: The Mar Charbel Family (Ayleh Mar Charbel)