Saint Catherine: a spiritual figure emblematic of devotion

The feast of St Catherine is celebrated on 29 April. An Italian mystic and founder of the Third Order, St Catherine of Siena is known for her devotion to the contemplation of God and the practice of works of mercy. She is often invoked for spiritual guidance and compassion for the poor. St Catherine of Siena, spiritual guide, pray for us to be instruments of mercy.

Who is St Catherine?

Her story

St Catherine was born on 25 March 1347 in Siena and died on 29 April 1380 in Rome. St Catherine of Siena was a 14th century Italian mystic and theologian. She is considered one of the greatest saints of Catholicism, and is famous for her life of piety, mystical visions and devotion to Jesus Christ.

In 1366, Catherine began to have regular visions of Jesus and Mary, in which they asked her to defend the Church and fight against the errors of the society of her time. She wrote many letters to important people, including the Pope, in defence of truth and justice.

Catherine was also active in politics, playing an important role in the negotiations to end the war between the Papacy and the city of Florence. She also founded a community of nuns called the "Company of the Devout" to promote spiritual life and service to the poor.

St Catherine of Siena died in 1380 at the age of 33, and was canonised in 1461 by Pope Pius II. She is considered one of the greatest saints of the Catholic Church, and is an inspiration to people of all faiths.

Celebration of the Feast of St Catherine

Religious Rituals

Solemn Mass: Solemn Mass is often celebrated in honour of St Catherine of Siena, with special readings, prayers and songs.

Procession: some churches may hold processions in honour of St Catherine, with images of the saint carried in procession and songs of praise.

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament: the faithful may be invited to participate in an adoration of the Blessed Sacrament to honour St Catherine and ask for her intercession.

Reading of St Catherine's writings: extracts from her writings, including her letters and mystical visions, may be read during the celebration of the feast.

Awards: some churches may give awards or medals to people who have dedicated themselves to the spiritual life and to the service of others, in honour of St Catherine of Siena.

Popular celebrations

It is important to note that the celebrations of the feast of St Catherine of Siena may vary from church to church and from region to region, and that religious rituals may be modified according to local needs and traditions.

Prayer to Saint Catherine of Siena

O Saint Catherine of Siena,

You who have dedicated your life to prayer and service to others,

We ask you to grant us your intercession with God.

Give us your courage and determination to follow your example,

and to live a life dedicated to faith and love.

Help us to find inner peace in our troubled lives,

and to never lose sight of God's presence in all we do.

Teach us to love unconditionally,

And to give selflessly to those in need.

We pray to you, St Catherine,

To pray for us, today and always.

Amen.