Our Inspiration
The mission and ministries of the National Shrine of Saint Rita of Cascia are deeply rooted in and inspired by the life of Saint Rita of Cascia. Having experienced Christ’s healing presence in the face of violence and death that touched her family, Saint Rita bore the gospel message of reconciliation and peace to the wounded world around her. In doing so, she became a friend to humanity, lifting people to new life in the love of God.
Our Mission
Founded in 1907 by the Augustinian Province of Saint Thomas of Villanova, the National Shrine of Saint Rita of Cascia is a Roman Catholic community of prayer and worship deeply rooted in Augustinian spirituality. Inspired by the life of Saint Rita of Cascia, an Augustinian saint known as a healer, reconciler, and peacemaker, the Shrine seeks to inspire people from all walks of life to live these virtues as they come to know and encounter God and others.
Our Vision
As we deepen awareness of the message and life of Saint Rita, as well as the ministry of the Shrine locally, nationally, and internationally, we desire to grow as a place of prayerful pilgrimage, transforming sacrament, and compassionate pastoral services of encounter.
At the National Shrine of Saint Rita of Cascia, people from all walks of life find a place of peaceful retreat and hopeful encounter. Stop by and experience this special place for yourself.
Our Augustinian Connection
The National Shrine of Saint Rita of Cascia operates under the auspices of the Augustinian Province of Saint Thomas of Villanova. The Augustinians exist world-wide, inspired by the religious insight and teaching of Saint Augustine. They seek to live out a Christian vocation of love for God and neighbor in the fashion of Augustine, in communion of life and service to the Church. To seek God together is the common project. To share the discovery of God is the chosen undertaking. Unity of mind and hearts is the goal as well as the constant stimulus.