By Kathleen Bordo Crombie
“The word of God continued to spread and grow.” ~ Acts 12:24
St. Teresa of Avila and St. Catherine of Siena were named the first female Doctors of the Church in 1970 by Pope Paul VI. Today is the Memorial of St. Catherine of Siena; she is also my chosen patron saint. I say “chosen” because I don’t believe I selected this wise and righteous woman, but rather she chose me. During her life she was persistent, spoke her mind convincingly, and she was never afraid to step out in faith because she knew she served Jesus Christ. That’s exactly the kind of patron saint I’ve needed all my life. I pray often for the gift of holy boldness and know that I have a stellar role model in St. Catherine of Siena.
We Met in Siena!
Even though St. Catherine has been my patron saint, we were no more than mere acquaintances until a few years ago. On a WINE and Shrine pilgrimage to Italy, I met and had an unexpected encounter with St. Catherine in front of the relic of her head in the Basilica Cateriniana di Domenico in Siena. While praying and seeking her intercession, I was flooded with her presence. It was undeniable … I absolutely knew it was her! It was a profound experience that literally took my breath away. She chose that pilgrimage moment to make things clear: she is definitely my patron saint, and she is always interceding for me.
I Want That!
Today’s Mass reading begins, “The Word of God continued to spread and grow.” The Word of God continues to grow today through the work and legacy of holy men and women like St. Catherine of Siena, the Church, and each one of us. St. Catherine said, “Proclaim the truth and do not be silent through fear.”
There it is … holy boldness! I want that!
Prayer:
Lord, I pray that I will always proclaim Your truth and never be silent due to my own fear. Within my own circle of influence, let me model St. Catherine of Siena in her holy boldness and desire to always choose to follow and serve You. May the Holy Spirit always be near to assist me when I am called upon to protect and defend the Word of God — let me not be afraid. Amen.
Call to Action:
Each day ask God what He is calling you to do to help spread the Gospel. Even if we fear what we think the Lord is asking of us, take the first step and assure Him you’re willing to stop and/or redirect at His direction if you’re on the wrong path. The important thing is to begin … it is often fear that stops us in serving Him.
© 2026 WINE — All Rights Reserved
Ah, what a sweet heartfelt reminder of my vist to St Catherine of Sienna … Blessings!
Chris! When did you visit Siena?
Thank you, Kathy. I remember that trip. I need to pray to St. Catherine to help me be bold in a gentle way.
Ruth! I thought you were on that trip … I’ve been there twice. Bold and gentle? St. Catherine can do that too!
What an amazing woman/saint/doctor-of-the-church! She is a perfect patron saint for you, especially after that experience at her relic….your heart burning within you! Beautiful!
My heart was truly burning … on fire to be precise! It was an intense experience!
Thank you, Kathy. I loved being in her home in Siena. St. Catherine pray for us!
Thank you Catherine! Siena is a beautiful city, even more so as they honor and seek the intercession of St. Catherine of Siena.
What a moving spiritual experience for you. Your encounter touches my heart. A real example of how our prayers for intercession from our saints are so important. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you Kristie! It’s just one of those intense holy moments you just have to share in witness of how the saints interact with us on a personal level. I am grateful for this encounter with St. Catherine of Siena!
Thank you for writing this beautiful story about your patron, Saint Catherine of Siena! It was very moving and very empowering! You helped me realize: I want that too!
Diane! Thank you for your comment … you touched my heart. Praise God!