St. Simon de Rojas

Saint Simón de Rojas O.SS.T. (28 October 1552 – 29 September 1624) was a Spanish priest of the Trinitarian Order known as the "Apostle of the Ave Maria," for his devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. A person of many abilities, Simón was a theologian and a spiritual writer, as well as a friend and benefactor of the poor.

St. Simón is often depicted by painters, with the greeting "Ave Maria" on his lips. The congregation founded by St. Simón, Congregation of the Slaves of the Sweet Name of Mary (also known as the Congregation of the Slaves of Mary or the Congregation of the Most Holy Name of Mary), was intended for the laity; persons of every social class could join. The members, who included the king and his children, dedicated themselves to honour Mary by giving maternal help to her favourite children, the poor. This work still continues in Spain. St. Simón, who is held to be one of the greatest contemplatives of his time and who in his work, "The Greatness of Prayer" is clearly a great instructor of prayerful souls, wanted the contemplative dimension joined to the active through works of mercy. His memorial is kept on September 28.