For 70 years, Sr. Rose Vattilana has devoted her life to service as a Sister of St. Francis, taking on numerous administrative and secretarial roles. However, her most profound impact came through her work as the Diocesan Director of the Office of Pro-Life Activities in the Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee. With unwavering dedication, she challenged conventions and touched countless lives by addressing critical life issues. Sr. Rose played a pivotal role in shaping the pro-life movement within the diocese. She helped craft speeches and assisted the Bishop with talking points for radio and television interviews, particularly during the turbulent time following the tragic bombing of a building where abortions were performed. Understanding the need for grassroots advocacy, she tirelessly worked to establish pro-life initiatives across all 53 parishes and missions spanning 18 counties in Florida.
One of her most enduring legacies is the founding of Project Rachel Post-Abortion Counseling and Reconciliation—a healing ministry that offers compassionate, faith-based support to women and men struggling with the pain of abortion, providing one-on-one counseling and group healing events. Thanks to Sr. Rose’s vision and perseverance, this ministry continues to thrive today, offering hope and restoration to those in need. Beyond establishing programs, Sr. Rose was a force of action. She spearheaded fundraising efforts for billboards and a hotline, ensuring that help was accessible to those seeking healing. She organized educational materials, expanded the reach of Project Rachel across Florida and beyond, and played a key role in orchestrating diocesan and statewide annual pro-life Masses.
Her life’s work has been a testament to the power of faith, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the dignity of life. Through her leadership and tireless efforts, Sr. Rose has left an indelible mark—not only on the diocese but on the hearts of all those she served.
Follow The Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia on social media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SrsofStFrancisPhila/?ref=mf
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sistersofstfrancis/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/SrsofStFrancisPhila
X: https://twitter.com/OSFPhila
