Frances of Rome

About Frances of Rome

Frances of Rome was a wife, mother, and founder who experienced mystical visions while serving the poor. Married at 13 to a Roman nobleman, Frances wanted religious life but accepted marriage obediently. She and her sister-in-law cared for the sick and poor. During wars and plague, Frances turned her palace into a hospital. After 40 years of marriage and her husband's death, Frances joined the Oblates of Tor de' Specchi she had founded. She reportedly saw her guardian angel and experienced many visions. Frances is patron of motorists because her angel lit her way with a lantern. Canonized 1608.