Saint Roch
- Born:
- c. 1295, Montpellier, France
- Died:
- August 16, 1327 (or 1376-79), Voghera, Italy (disputed)
- Nationality:
- French
- Profession:
- Pilgrim, Healer
Early Life and Education
- Born to a noble family in Montpellier.
- According to tradition, marked from birth with a red cross on his chest.
- Orphaned at the age of twenty upon the death of his parents.
- Sold his inheritance and distributed the proceeds to the poor, beginning his life as a pilgrim.
Career and Major Achievements
- Traveled as a pilgrim to Italy during an outbreak of the plague.
- Ministered to the sick in hospitals in Rome, Acquapendente, Cesena, and Piacenza.
- Contracted the plague himself while in Piacenza.
- Withdrew into the forest to avoid infecting others and was miraculously sustained by a dog who brought him bread.
- Healed from the plague and returned to Montpellier.
- Imprisoned on suspicion of being a spy upon his return to France.
Legacy and Impact
Saint Roch is widely venerated as the patron saint of plague sufferers, invalids, surgeons, and dogs. Churches, hospitals, and brotherhoods were established in his name across Europe. Images of "san roque saint biography banners" are often used to depict his life and patronage.
His intercession is sought against contagious diseases, particularly the plague, cholera, and other epidemics. His feast day is August 16.
Notable Works
No written works are attributed to Saint Roch. His legacy is preserved through oral tradition and artistic representations.