St. Catherine of Siena

Catherine Benincasa was born on March 25, 1347, in Siena.  Her life was destined to be extraordinary, an example of a life devoted entirely to Jesus, and dedicated to serving the sick and poor.  Throughout her life, St. Catherine suffered horrific physical pain and ailments, all of which she stood joyfully for the sake of sinners.  She died on April 29, 1380, which is her Feast Day, at the age of thirty-three.  St. Catherine was canonized in 1461 by Pope Pius II.

• Saint Catherine had immense compassion for people who were sick and she devoted a lot of energy helping and serving them.  This is why she is the patron of sickness, illness, nurses and nursing services.
• St Catherine is the patron of mothers and miscarriages because she is believed to be a spiritual mother and teacher of God.
• Catherine was mocked for her fervent devotion and she is the patron of people who are ridiculed for their piety.
• Plagued by temptations and overcoming them, she is the patron saint of temptation.

Saint Catherine has special meaning for anyone who is a healer, nurse, or is ill. She is also close to firefighters and mothers. She can have comfort and meaning for those who fear or have had a miscarriage. All of us who are tempted by sin can find remembrance of our faith in God through Saint Catherine. If we have been challenged for our Catholic faith then we may identify with her.  People with the name Catherine or who have chosen this name on their Confirmation can use her image as a remembrance of this holy sacrament and it's meaning in their life.

Courtesy: www.st-catherine-medal.com