Feast of St. Frances of Rome (1384 - 1440) Merciful Father, in Frances of Rome You have given us a unique example of love in marriage as well as in religious life. Keep us faithful in Your service, and help us to see and follow You in all the aspects of life. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. +Amen. From the Collect of the Mass on the Feast of St. Frances of Rome For Reflection: St. Frances of Rome did not want to marry but desired instead to enter religious life. However, she recognized that marriage was God's will for her. She did marry and, following the death of her husband, she founded a religious order. How is God speaking to me through the witness of the life of St. Frances of Rome?