Saint Rose of Lima, pray for us!

​On August 30, 1829, the traditional feast of St. Rose of Lima, the founding of Santa Rosa was begun by Padre Juan Amoros. A Franciscan missionary, Padre Amoros baptized the first native Christian of the area on this date, christening her with the name of the day's saint - St. Rose. He gave the same name, Santa Rosa, to the creek in which he administered the Sacrament and the whole area. The baptistry window of the Cathedral of St. Eugene depicts Padre Amoros baptizing the young maid and it is from this joyous event that the Diocese of Santa Rosa received both its name and its primary patron. Later, a small outpost was established consisting of a chapel and residence where the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass was offered when priests from the missions of San Rafael or Sonoma could visit. In time, this small outpost (which was never a full mission) grew into the City of Santa Rosa.

​Inscription on the stone marking the site of the baptism

Prayer to St. Rose for the Diocese of Santa Rosa

God, our Father, in all the churches
scattered throughout the world
you show forth the one, holy,
Catholic, and apostolic Church.

Through the Gospel and the 
Eucharist bring your people
of the Church of Santa Rosa
together in the Holy Spirit.
Renew in us your grace
and guide us in your love.

Make us a sign of your love
for all people, and help us
to show forth the living 
presence of Christ in the world,
who lives and reigns with you
and the Holy Spirit, one God,
​forever and ever. Amen.