From a very young age, Rose exhibited signs of deep piety. According to tradition, she miraculously revived after being pronounced dead at the age of three, a moment that many saw as a sign of her special destiny. This event marked the beginning of a life characterized by remarkable spiritual gifts and a strong sense of divine purpose.
As a child, Rose was drawn to a life of prayer and penance. By the age of seven, she had already begun living a reclusive life, dedicating herself to spiritual practices far beyond what might be expected of someone so young. Her early years were spent in contemplation and fasting, and she quickly gained a reputation for her holiness.
During this period, Italy was deeply divided by the conflict between the papacy and the Holy Roman Empire, with many towns, including Viterbo, caught in the crossfire of political and religious strife. It was against this backdrop that Rose felt called to a public mission. Despite her youth, she began to preach in the streets of Viterbo, urging the townspeople to repent and return to God. Clad in a simple tunic, she would walk through the town, speaking with an authority and passion that belied her age.
Rose’s preaching was not without consequences. Her strong support for the papacy put her at odds with the ruling authorities in Viterbo, who were loyal to the Holy Roman Emperor. Her calls for repentance and her vocal opposition to the Emperor’s influence led to her and her family being exiled from Viterbo. Yet, even in exile, Rose continued her mission, moving from town to town and spreading her message of repentance and devotion.
Despite the opposition she faced, Rose’s life was marked by several miracles that further testified to her sanctity. One of the most famous occurred during her exile when she miraculously healed a woman suffering from a terminal illness. This miracle, among others, solidified Rose’s reputation as a holy woman endowed with divine gifts.
After some time in exile, Rose was allowed to return to Viterbo. Back in her hometown, she sought to join the Poor Clares, a religious order known for its strict adherence to poverty and simplicity. However, due to her youth and frail health, Rose was rejected by the order. This rejection did not deter her; instead, it deepened her commitment to living a life of prayer and penance. She continued her spiritual practices at home, where she created a small cell and lived as a laywoman devoted entirely to God.
In 1251, at the age of 18, Rose fell ill and predicted her death. She passed away on March 6 of that year. When her body was exhumed years later, it was found to be incorrupt, a sign of her sanctity. Her remains were eventually moved to the Church of St. Rose in Viterbo, where they are venerated to this day.
St. Rose of Viterbo was beatified in 1457 by Pope Callixtus III, and she was later canonized as a saint. Her feast day is celebrated on September 4. She is revered as the patron saint of Viterbo and is especially invoked by those facing rejection, whether by religious orders or other institutions, as well as by people living in exile.
St. Rose’s legacy is one of youthful zeal for God and unwavering faith, even in the face of adversity. Her life serves as an inspiration to all who seek to follow their divine calling with courage and devotion, regardless of the obstacles they may encounter.
.