16/08/2026
Celebrating the feast of St. Roch…
ABANDONED AND SICK—A DOG BROUGHT HIM BREAD
Today, August 16, the Church remembers Saint Roch, the pilgrim who devoted his life to caring for victims of the plague.
According to Catholic tradition, Roch eventually contracted the disease himself. Not wanting to endanger others, he withdrew alone into the forest.
There, when everyone seemed to have forgotten him, a faithful dog found him and returned each day carrying bread. The animal’s devotion eventually led its owner to Roch, who received the care he desperately needed.
This is why Saint Roch is remembered as a patron of the sick, those suffering from epidemics—and dogs.
His story carries a beautiful message: when the world leaves us alone, God can send help through the most unexpected messenger.
Saint Roch, pray for the sick, the abandoned, their caregivers, and all the animals entrusted to our care.
🙏 Leave the name of someone who needs healing in the comments.