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Get ready to celebrate St. Roch's Day on August 16! This special day is dedicated to honoring the life and deeds of a French saint who was known for his miraculous healing abilities, particularly during times of plague. St. Roch's story dates back to the 14th century and has been celebrated in various ways throughout history, including with processions and feasts. Today, it serves as a reminder of the power of faith and compassion in difficult times. Let's spread some joy and positivity on this day by learning more about St. Roch and his legacy.
<div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1300s</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Birth of St. Roch</div><div class='timeline-text'>St. Roch was born in Montpellier, France, with a cross-shaped birthmark on his chest, which was viewed as a divine sign of his special destiny.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1327</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>St. Roch's Pilgrimage</div><div class='timeline-text'>At the age of 20, after the death of his parents, St. Roch distributed his inheritance to the poor and embarked on a pilgrimage to Rome on foot.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1337</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Miraculous Healings</div><div class='timeline-text'>During his travels, St. Roch became famous for miraculously healing people suffering from plague by merely touching them with his hand.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1378</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>St. Roch's Death</div><div class='timeline-text'>St. Roch died around 16th of August, leaving behind a legacy of faith and compassion. He is often depicted with a dog by his side, signifying the dog who brought him food during his own illness.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1500s</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Veneration and Patronage</div><div class='timeline-text'>From the 15th century onwards, St. Roch was venerated as the patron saint of dogs and falsely accused people, and also recognized as a protector against plagues.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1614</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Establishment of St. Roch's Day</div><div class='timeline-text'>St. Roch's Day was officially recognized by the Catholic Church and has been celebrated on 16th August ever since, with traditions including visiting animal shelters and donating to related charities.</div></div></div>
<div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>1</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Attend a mass or church service</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>St. Roch was a Catholic saint and his feast day is celebrated with special masses and church services. Attend one to honor him and learn more about his life.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>2</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Host a neighborhood BBQ</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>St. Roch is also known as the patron saint of dogs, so why not gather your neighbors and their furry friends for a BBQ? This is a great way to celebrate the day and bring the community together.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>3</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Visit a hospital or nursing home</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>St. Roch is also known as the patron saint of the sick, so visit a hospital or nursing home to bring some cheer and comfort to those in need. You can also bring small gifts or donations in honor of the saint.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>4</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Make a donation to a charity</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>In honor of St. Roch’s selfless acts of charity, consider making a donation to a charity that helps those in need. This is a great way to honor the saint and make a positive impact on the world.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>5</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Light a candle or say a prayer</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Take a moment to reflect and say a prayer or light a candle in honor of St. Roch. This is a simple but meaningful way to celebrate his life and legacy on his feast day.</p></div></div>
<div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>A</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>It's a day to remember a beloved saint</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>St. Roch's Day celebrates the life and legacy of St. Roch, a Catholic saint known for his acts of compassion and healing during the Black Plague. It's important to honor and remember this remarkable figure in history who dedicated his life to helping others.</p></div></div><div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>B</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>It reminds us to show kindness and help those in need</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>St. Roch's Day is also a reminder to follow in his footsteps and show kindness to those around us, especially those who may be suffering or in need. It's a great opportunity to do something charitable or volunteer at a local shelter or hospital.</p></div></div><div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>C</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>It brings communities together</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>In many countries, St. Roch's Day is celebrated with processions, parades, and other community activities which bring people together to honor their shared beliefs and values. It's a great way to strengthen bonds and foster a sense of unity within the community.</p></div></div>
<div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>1</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>St. Roch healed himself from the plague.</h3><p class='facts-content'>Legend has it that St. Roch, after contracting the plague on his travels, retreated to the forest for solitude. There, a dog brought him bread, and he remarkably healed himself through prayer.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>2</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>The dog is honored as well on St. Roch's Day.</h3><p class='facts-content'>A dog, who brought St. Roch bread when he was in the forest, is often honored alongside the saint. The dog is celebrated as a symbol of loyalty and companionship.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>3</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>St. Roch's Day is widely celebrated in Italy.</h3><p class='facts-content'>In Italy, especially in Venice and Rome, St. Roch's Day is observed with large communal feasts, processions, and prayer services to celebrate and honor the saint's life and miracles.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>4</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>St. Roch is often depicted pointing to a sore on his leg.</h3><p class='facts-content'>Typical artistic portrayals of St. Roch show him pointing to a sore on his leg, a symbol of the plague he survived, while a dog looks on. The dog often carries a piece of bread in its mouth, referencing the miracle of St. Roch's self-healing.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>5</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>St. Roch is also venerated for his humility and vow of poverty.</h3><p class='facts-content'>After his parent's death, St. Roch distributed his wealth among the poor. He led a life of humility and austerity, becoming a model for those seeking a path of simplicity and charitable living.</p></div></div>
St. Roch's Day is celebrated on August 16 every year. In 2024 St. Roch's Day will occur on a Friday.
2023
Aug 16
Wednesday
2024
Aug 16
Friday
2025
Aug 16
Saturday
2026
Aug 16
Sunday
2027
Aug 16
Monday
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