I am often interested in the story of the Saints. Not necessarily the Saint themselves(don't mean that to sound wrong) but I like to know what their parents were like, why was it that they became these great men and women of virtue. Catherine of Sienna is one such of these. Being one of twenty four children, I can only stand back and admire her parents. I thought eight was a large family! Catherine was raised in this incredibly large family. She found quite and solace at a young age in one of the
rooms in her Fathers house. It was here that she began to experience mystical experiences and see visions. By the age of seven she had consecrated her virginity to Christ. When she was sixteen she took the habit of the Dominicans and led a very austere life. Her celestial visions increased and she was in constant conversations with Christ. During this time she began to tend the sick and the poor and especially those with the most repulsive of diseases. Catherine's heart was always for the conversion of those around her.
As time passed Catherine began to surround herself with men and women who formed a wonderful spiritual fellowship drawn by the depth wanted to be with this holiest of women. Living very frugally and being in constant pain due to her lack of food save the Blessed Sacrament , Catherine was never without a generous smile and a happy nature.
Catherine lived during a very turbulent time in Italy she had noblemen and Princes in her trust. She even implored Pope Gregory XI to leave Avignon and reform the clergy and the administration of the Papal States.
Catherine, in 1380 implored her beloved Saviour to let her bear the punishments for all the sins of the world and for the renovation of the Church. For three months she suffered a prolonged and mysterious agony, dying on the Sunday before the Feast of the Ascension. Today her writings continue to inspire people everywhere to grow in faith and virtue. May St. Catherine pray for us as we once again face a very turbulent world and may she teach us how to draw closer to our Saviour and redeemer.
How to celebrate, well why not pizza or pasta for tea!
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