(d.c.305) Catherine was born to nobility and educated in Alexandria, Egypt. She converted to Christianity after receiving a vision of Saint Mary and the Child Jesus. At 18 years old, she debated and converted many renowned pagan philosophers. Emperor Maxentius had her scourged, imprisoned, and, finally, martyred. While the historicity of her life is difficult to verify and the details are often embellished, Saint Catherine was reported to be one of the mystic advisors to Saint Joan of Arc, and is one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers that were popular during the Middle Ages.
The critical moments in Saint Catherine’s brief life were her witness to the truth with great persuasion and learning. If we intend to share what we have gained in recovery or in our Catholic faith, the study of source materials is usually a precursor to being effective. Have you studied the Big Book or the basic text of your fellowship? Have you studied Scripture and the Catechism of the Catholic Church?
“If you are ruled by the mind you are a king, if by the body you are a slave” (Saint Catherine of Alexandria).
Reflection by Brad Farmer