For 114 consecutive years, thousands of faithful have traveled to South Philadelphia over the course of nine days, from May 13 and May 21, to participate in the various novena services leading up to the Feast of St. Rita of Cascia. 

This year, Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., was among the faithful who made a special visit to the National Shrine of St. Rita of Cascia on May 22, where he celebrated a televised Mass on the actual feast day of the saint who is widely known as the patron of hopeless causes. 

To watch the recording of the mass click here.

Photo Gallery: Bishop Celebrates Feast of St. Rita of Cascia at National Shrine

Photo Gallery: The National Shrine of Saint Rita of Cascia in Philadelphia