St. Catherine of Siena’s feast day is celebrated on April 29. St. Catherine was a strong advocate for the Catholic Church in fourteenth-century Italy. She constantly reminded Church leaders that their power was a responsibility given by God, not a tool for personal ambition. Her spirituality was rooted in the Eucharist and a deep love for Christ crucified.

It is often difficult to live for Jesus in this world; it seems easier to create a “bubble” around yourself and those who share in your faith. Jesus called St. Catherine to step out of her “bubble” and re-enter the world as an advocate for His love for all people. As a Doctor of the Church, St. Catherine was fearless when she spoke to the leaders of her world because she wasn’t speaking for herself; she was speaking for God. Even as lay people, we are called to bring all those around us closer to God. We should not be afraid to speak the truth about God to everyone we meet and lead by example.

In this Easter season, we are inspired to continue to pray daily, especially for our clergy and religious leaders. They are in charge of the most souls, and that responsibility is no easy task. One of the best ways to assist our Church in her mission is to contemplate the crucified Christ. He is our strength, hope, and light in this world. As we are reminded through the recent death of the Holy Father, Pope Francis, this world is only temporary – we must use our time wisely to pray and contemplate the sacrifice Jesus made for each of us.

St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Norwood, Massachusetts, is my home parish, where I received all the Sacraments of Initiation. As I’ve matured in my Catholic faith, I’ve come to understand the true fearlessness of my patron saint. Catholics need this kind of fearless faith to evangelize the world. The faith of our families at St. Benedict Classical Academy is a good example of this fearlessness, one in which parents are raising their children to boldly proclaim the Truth through love, goodness, and beauty.

St. Catherine reminds us that true holiness is about courage, love, and fidelity to God’s call. In her own words, St. Catherine said, “Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire.” May we all have the boldness to do just that.

St. Catherine of Siena, pray for us!

AUTHOR: Hannah Ford, Early Learning Program Coordinator