Saint Roch (1295 – 1376?) – also known as Rock, or, in Scotland, Rollox, not to be confused with the luxury watch of similar vintage – whose feast we celebrate on August 16th, was a Majorcan confessor, perhaps originally from Montpellier. On a pilgrimage to Rome, he tended to plague victims, caught the disease, and is usually portrayed with the characteristic bulbo, or suppurating sore, of the plague on his thigh. But he recovered, returned to France, was imprisoned as a spy, since his uncle, who was the governor, did not recognize him, and Roch, perhaps in a desire to suffer as an unknown pilgrim, refused to identify himself. He was only known after his early death in prison by the cross-shaped birthmark on his chest, and miracles soon abounded. Saint Roch once had a widespread devotion in the Church – see my post on the church in Quebec City – but few Catholics likely know of him now, except, of course, those who read Catholic Insight.
For reasons that are unclear, he is the patron saint of dogs, and is often pictured with one. My brother has a golden retriever who was born on his feast, who was named, of course, Rocco. Saint Roch is also the patron saint of plague victims, invalids and bachelors, usually distinct groups, but which sometimes overlap, even if bachelors often have dogs, to make up for their loneliness. But, then, so do bachelorettes, perhaps even more so. Perhaps we need a canine-based dating service, and Saint Roch could be the primary intercessor for fruitful and happy marriages, with lots of children, as well as dogs, if they like.
Saint Roch, ora pro nobis! +