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Feast Day: August 11
Saint Rusticola, also known as Marcia, was born into a noble Christian family in the year 551 in Vaison, which is now modern-day Séguret, France. From a young age, Rusticola was deeply rooted in her faith and was drawn to the religious life. She entered the abbey founded by Saint Caesarius of Arles and became a nun. Rusticola's dedication and piety quickly became evident, and she soon rose to become the abbess of the abbey in Arles, Provence, in modern-day France. She fulfilled this role with great devotion and commitment for nearly six decades. Throughout her time as abbess, Rusticola was admired for her deeply meditative prayer life, her rigorous asceticism, and her unrelenting fight to defend her abbey from political pressures. The abbess's unwavering determination to preserve the integrity of her religious community led her to face many challenges. Due to her defiance of civil authorities at one point, Rusticola found herself imprisoned. However, King Clotaire II recognized her innocence and subsequently ordered her release. Rusticola's life exemplified the virtues of faith, fortitude, and resilience. In the face of adversity, she remained steadfast in her commitment to her faith and her community. Her deep spirituality and unwavering dedication to God inspired not only those within her abbey but also the wider Christian community. Saint Rusticola's feast day is celebrated on August 11th. After a life filled with tireless service and devotion, she passed away on this very day in the year 632. Rusticola was buried at her beloved abbey in Arles, France. Although she is not officially recognized as the patron saint of a particular cause or profession, Saint Rusticola's life stands as an example of faith, courage, and unwavering dedication. The Church acknowledges her as a saint, and her canonization falls within the pre-congregation period. Saint Rusticola of Arles, also known as Marcia, continues to inspire believers through her deep and meditative prayer life, her asceticism, and her unyielding commitment to defend her religious community. Her life serves as a testament to the power of faith, prayer, and perseverance in the face of adversity.