The Basics: Born April 23, 1522, in Italy; died February 1, 1590, in Italy; canonized June 29, 1746, by Benedict IV; feast day, February 13. Woman religious and mystic.
The Story: At first, they didn’t believe her. Even as a Dominican novice, Catherine experienced ecstasies that led her community to question just what was happening. Catherine withstood the tests she was put through and those around her came to accept her unique gifts. For twelve years beginning when she was twenty, Catherine experienced Christ’s passion from Thursdays at noon through Friday afternoon. In addition to this special relationship with the Lord, Catherin was regarded as an excellent administrator and served in leadership roles at her convent for most of her life as a woman religious.
Catherine’s Wisdom: “We are not to aim at dying, but at living to do good.”
What We Can Learn from Catherine: What others think of our relationship with God needn’t concern us. There’s no need to become defensive about their skepticism. Stay calm and confident. It may be a conversion opportunity.
To Learn More About Catherine: A tourism site provides information about the Minor Basilica of St. Vincent and Catherine de’ Ricci, where Catherine’s remains are housed; the convent where she lived was next door.
To Learn More About Other Women Saints and Blesseds: Come back next week, or consider buying my book, Sisterhood of Saints: Daily Guidance and Inspiration.
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