St. Roch Biography

St. Roch was born in Montpellier, located on the border of France. It is said that his birth was a miracle because his mother was unable to bear children. St. Roch's mother prayed devoutly to the Blessed Virgin and she became pregnant.

St. Roch was born with a birthmark of a red cross on his chest. The red cross became larger as St. Roch grew to manhood.

St Roch Donated His Belongings

When St. Roch's parents died, he gave all his earthly belongings to the poor, following the example of St. Francis of Assisi. St. Roch was twenty years old at the time. He was named governor of Montpellier by his father, but St. Roch refused the position and traveled to Italy to care for plague victims.

St. Roch Contracted the Plague

While attending to the sick in various hospitals of Rome, St. Roch was stricken with the plague. He was sent into exile. St. Roch went to the forest and built a small shelter of sticks and leaves. St. Roch would have died of starvation but a dog brought him bread every day from his master's home. For this reason, St. Roch became the patron saint of dogs.

St. Roch Returned to Montpellier

St. Roch recovered from the plague and returned to Montpellier. Upon his arrival, he was arrested and imprisoned for being a spy. He suffered in prison for five years and died on August. Upon his death, the people of the town recognized the red cross on his chest and St. Roch became a saint of the people.

Patron Saint of Dogs

St. Roch was named the patron saint of dogs because he was saved from a sure death by the aid of a dog. Many Catholics who have beloved pets wear a St. Roch medal, praying for the intercession of St. Roch in keeping their dog safe and healthy. A St. Roch necklace is an ideal gift for a child who is choosing his or her first puppy. Wearing a St. Roch medal reminds the child to take good care of the puppy and offer the pet love and companionship throughout its life.