Saint Rita's story is layered: marked by personal loss, peacemaking in the face of violence, and deep spiritual devotion. Known as the patron saint of impossible causes, she has long been a symbol of perseverance, quiet strength, and deep faith.

A successful mural entry will honor the depth of Saint Rita’s journey while illuminating her story through a joyful, modern lens. How might her spirit of reconciliation, hope, and faith look in today's world? What symbols, colors, or emotions might express her relevance to modern lives?

This is not a call for a traditional or purely literal representation. We welcome creative, vibrant, and imaginative approaches that reflect:

• The faith that carried her through grief and into peace.

• The perseverance in her acts of love and forgiveness.

• The hope she offers to those facing the impossible.

• The joy she embodied in every vocation of her life.

Let your work reflect not only who Saint Rita was—but what she means now to millions of people around the world.

We are seeking an original, inspiring mural design to be installed outside, on the north side of the National Shrine of Saint Rita of Cascia (1166 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146).

Whether you’re a seasoned muralist or an emerging artist, we want to see how you interpret the theme: “Rita: A Saint for All People from Every Generation.”

Once we receive all the submissions by the deadline, a committee made up of patrons, staff members, Augustinian Friars, artists, and community members will select a winning design. The artist will be notified on Friday, January 9, 2026. The winning artist will have 4.5 months to install the mural, unless other arrangements are made with the Shrine.

• Submission Deadline:
  Sunday, November 16, 2025

• Winner Announcement:
  Friday, January 9, 2026

• Mural Installation Period:
  To be determined in consultation with the winning artist, with the intention of having the mural completed and dedicated on Friday, May 22, 2026

• Prize: $12,500 honorarium, including materials.

• Public Recognition: Your work will be a permanent part of the art collection on display at the Shrine, and will be featured on our website, social media, prayer cards, and in press releases.

• Opportunity: A chance to collaborate with the National Shrine of Saint Rita of Cascia and leave your artistic mark on our community. The mural will be located at the gateway to Philadelphia’s Avenue of the Arts.

• Design must be original and appropriate for a public, family-friendly space. The location of the mural will be between the Shrine and the Cascia Center, a mixed-use building that houses 46 senior citizens, as well as meeting space for pilgrims, retreatants, and visitors.

• Submissions should include:

  • A digital rendering or sketch of your concept for a 10.5 foot tall (126 inches) by 42.2 foot wide (505.25 inches) exterior “canvas” or metal wall.

  • An explanation of the materials, medium, and plan for installation.

  • A brief artist statement (max 300 words).

  • A short bio and portfolio or samples of past work.

• File format: [e.g., JPEG, PNG, PDF]

• Submit your entry via e-mail to: jjerome@saintritashrine.org

• Open to artists nationwide, aged 18+.

• Individual or collaborative entries are welcome.

Submit your mural design or other questions to jjerome@saintritashrine.org. Help turn our shared space into a celebration of faith, creativity, and community!