Wednesday’s Woman: St. Gertrude the Great

The Basics: Born 1256 in Germany; died 1302 in Germany; canonized 1677; feast day, November 16. Woman religious, mystic, and author. The Story: It’s commonly acknowledged that Gertrude is the only female Catholic saint who is called “great.” So, what’d she do that was so great during her forty-six years on earth? Perhaps it was her obedience…… Continue reading Wednesday’s Woman: St. Gertrude the Great

Wednesday’s Woman: Blessed Clelia Merloni

The Basics: Born March 3, 1861, in Italy; died November 21, 1930 in Italy; beatified November 3, 2018; feast day, November 21. Woman religious. The Story: Clelia’s story is one of humility and unjust judgment. Her life had begun so positively, born into a wealthy family, which afforded her a good education and financial security. However,… Continue reading Wednesday’s Woman: Blessed Clelia Merloni

Wednesday’s Woman: St. Daria

The Basics: Born in the third century AD in Italy; died about 283 in Italy; canonized pre-congregation; feast day, October 25. Wife and martyr. The Story: It is a moving story, the tradition of Daria and Chrysanthus. She was a beautiful high priestess, possibly a vestal virgin responsible for maintaining Rome’s sacred fire. He was the… Continue reading Wednesday’s Woman: St. Daria

Wednesday’s Woman: Saint Irene of Tomar

The Basics: Born about 635 in Portugal; died about 653 in Portugal; canonized pre-congregation; feast day, October 20. Woman religious and martyr. The Story: Irene’s is a story that may ring familiar for some of us today. Tradition has it that she was born into a wealthy noble family, and as time went on, a young man… Continue reading Wednesday’s Woman: Saint Irene of Tomar