CANTICLE TO SAINT RITA

Though your life was filled with pain…

Though your soul was torn apart…

Never once did you complain.

Faithful ever was your heart.

As a child you served God well.

You were always good and kind.

On holy things you did dwell

Within your heart, soul, and mind.

When your parents asked for you

To be a mother and a wife…

You did all they asked of you;

Gave up your will and your life.

When your husband treated you

Most harshly and cruelly.

You served him faithful and true.

Converted him lovingly.

When your sons did seek to kill

The man who slayed your husband.

You placed your trust in God still,

And He in turn stayed their hand.

When your head was pierced into

With a thorn from Our Lord’s Crown.

It increased your fervor true.

Never was your soul let down.

Grant to me a small token,

Through the merits of your heart.

Grant that I be soft spoken.

Please ask God to take my part.