St. Frances of Rome
Patron Saint of Automobile Drivers and Widows
St. Frances of Rome was born in Rome in 1384, and from a young age, she dreamed of becoming a religious. At her father’s wishes, she reluctantly married a wealthy member of Roman society. From her position of wealth, she would care for the poor and sick in Rome, inspiring other wealthy members of society to do the same. She learned to find sanctity in her vocation as a wife and mother. Frances became a Benedictine oblate, so she could be joined in prayer with the local Benedictine community while doing her familial work.