St. Frances of Rome was a founder of the Oblates of Mary, a religious community for women in Rome. She is known for her deep spirituality, her devotion to prayer, and her work with the poor. She spent her life serving God and others, especially in the midst of family and domestic duties.
St. Frances of Rome was born on April 11, 1384, in Rome, Italy, into a noble family. She was deeply religious from a young age, and at the age of 13, she was arranged to marry Lorenzo de Ponziani, a man of noble lineage. Though she had a deep desire to dedicate herself to the service of God, she accepted her marriage as a part of her calling to fulfill her duties to both family and faith.
Frances' married life was not without its trials. She and her husband had a family, and she raised three children. Yet, her spiritual life remained central to her being, and she managed to balance her domestic responsibilities with prayer and charity. She was known for her deep commitment to the poor, providing for them out of her own resources.
After the death of her husband in 1425, Frances devoted herself more fully to the service of God. She founded the Oblates of Mary, a religious order for women, which focused on serving the poor and providing care for the sick. Her life was marked by profound humility, and she was known for her visions and mystical experiences, in which she often received guidance from the Blessed Virgin Mary.
St. Frances passed away on March 9, 1440, and her canonization took place in 1608 by Pope Paul V. She is considered the patron saint of widows, and her feast day is celebrated on March 9.
Her legacy lives on through the Oblates of Mary, and she remains an example of faith, charity, and devotion, inspiring those who seek to combine the demands of family life with a profound commitment to spirituality.