Saint Zita was born in Tuscany, Italy, and raised by a family of strong faith. Her older sister was a nun and her uncle, a hermit. At age 12, Saint Zita was employed as a servant for a local rich family. Throughout most of her career, her employers treated her with scorn and abuse.
With God as her model, Saint Zita remained faithful to the family. She continually prayed for them and completed her daily chores successfully and with utmost care. Over time, Saint Zita's employers grew to love her and even became closer to God, themselves. Eventually, she was placed in charge of all the household affairs. Saint Zita was also allowed to leave the house on her own time to help the poor.
She is the patron saint of maids and domestic workers. Saint Zita died peacefully in her employers' house on April 27, 1272.
