St. Rocco, is the patron saint of plague victims and is also called Roch, Rock, Rollock, Seemie-Rookie, and Roque. Perhaps born in Montpellier, France, he was a source of amazement to his family because of the red cross found on his chest at birth. He subsequently devoted his life to the care of victims of pestilence.

According to custom, he was journeying through Italy when, in the town of Aquapendente, he found the community ravaged by the plague. He healed the afflicted and then moved on to Modena, Parma, and Mantua, where he repeated the miraculous event.

After falling ill at Piacenza, he returned home to Montpellier but was not recognized by his own family. Hurled into prison for being a spy, he died in captivity, whereupon his identity was discovered when the distinctive red cross was seen by the townspeople.

In 1414, Roch’s intercession was invoked during the Council of Constance when plague threatened the city. His relics were subsequently translated to Venice.

Revered as a protection against plagues and diseases, especially in France and parts of Italy, he is depicted in art in the company of a dog and dressed as a pilgrim, wearing a hat, cloak and boots and baring a staff.