Santa Rosa de Lima, Peru

History: Santa Rosa de Lima is the patron saint of Peru and the indigenous natives of Latin America. Born in Lima, Peru, on April 20, 1586, as Isabel Flores de Oliva, she was canonized by Pope Clement X in 1671. She is celebrated for her life of piety and dedication to the sick and poor.

Day of Celebration: The feast day of Santa Rosa de Lima is on August 30th every year. This day is a public holiday in Peru and commemorates her death.

Traditions:

• Religious Services: Peruvians attend church services to honor their patron saint with masses and processions.
• Pilgrimages: Devotees visit the Sanctuary of Santa Rosa de Lima to pay homage. Many write wishes or prayers on pieces of paper that they drop into a well within the sanctuary's grounds.
• Cultural Festivities: Music, dance, and other cultural activities are organized throughout cities in Peru.
• Acts of Charity: Inspired by Santa Rosa's life, people engage in charitable acts such as distributing food to the needy or volunteering at shelters.

What People Do:

• Attend Mass and participate in processions.
• Visit the Church and Historical Sanctuary of Saint Rose of Lima located where her house used to be.
• Write letters to Saint Rose asking for her intercession with God for personal matters. These are traditionally placed in a well at her sanctuary.
• Engage in community service and acts reflecting kindness and compassion as a tribute to Santa Rosa's devotion to helping others.