MaltaPost has unveiled a unique personalized stamp honoring the 125th anniversary of St. Rita of Cascia’s Pope Leo XIII canonization in 1900, featuring the famous statue of the saint by Gozitan artist Agostino “Wistin” Camilleri.
Victoria’s Augustinian community spearheaded the memorial project, with assistance from the Gozo Philatelic Society. Society vice president Anthony Grech’s specially designed cover includes a historical painting of the saint together with an image of St. Augustine’s Church and convent.
Given that the Church is now led by the first Augustinian pope, which closely matches St. Rita’s own spiritual legacy as an Augustinian nun, the festivities have extra meaning.
Often known as the “Saint of the Impossible,” St. Rita is honored all over the world for her intercessory ability, especially in dire circumstances. The stamp problem and related celebrations celebrate her long-lasting legacy of devotion, tenacity, and empathy.
