Day 6:  Saint Catherine of Siena

During Catherine’s childhood, the Black Plague ravaged Europe. Over sixty percent of the population died from this pandemic.  During these scary years, Catherine’s parents instilled in her the importance of daily prayer, giving to those in need, and speaking charitably about others in all situations.  Her parents taught her not to be judgmental of others, especially since it is difficult to know what someone else is going through.  Gossip is a waste time, since that energy could be spent serving other people in need.

The Black Plague returned to Catherine’s homeland in 1374.  At this point in her life, Catherine was involved in important Church and civil affairs in Italy.  While most persons with status fled the city of Siena, she threw herself into serving those affected by the deadly disease.  Catherine organized a group of volunteers to nurse the ill and she also located clergy to provide sacraments for the sick.  Some of the gravely ill said Catherine’s prayers healed them as she cared for them.  Several patients reconciled with God as they were dying because of Catherine’s encouragement.  She also helped arrange proper burials for the dead. 

During this deadly outbreak, two of Catherine’s brothers and her sister Lisa died.  The epidemic also killed several of her nieces and nephews.  Catherine grieved deeply for these family members, especially the children.

After the outbreak, many people were without work and food was scarce as the economy struggled to recover. Catherine spent much time feeding the poor and encouraging them not to give up hope.

Saint Catherine’s feast day is April 29.

Questions for Reflection

Saint Catherine’s parents taught her many important lessons as they raised her during an epidemic.  These lessons greatly influenced her future.  What important lessons did you learn from your parents during your childhood?  What important lessons are you learning during the COVID-19 epidemic that will influence your future?  What wisdom are you sharing with others during this pandemic?

Saint Catherine believed deeply in the Resurrection, but she still grieved the deaths of family members with great sadness and many tears.  Her faith allowed her to embrace her grief and not run away from it.  How have you experienced grief in your life?  Are there times when you avoided this grief or tried to numb this grief in unhealthy ways?   Who is grieving right now and could use some extra support from you?

Prayer

Lord God,

You raised up Saint Catherine as a leader within the Church to serve people in need.  Inspire us to serve others.  Help our families grow in wisdom during this epidemic.  Give us patience to learn from each other.  May Christian parents in our diocese guide their children to be open to whatever vocation God has chosen for them.  

We ask this through Christ our Lord.  Amen.

Saint Catherine of Siena, pray for us!