Word to the Wise
Friday, April 29, 2022 - 2nd Week of Easter - Fri
[Acts 5:34-42 and John 6:1-15,345]"For if this endeavor or activity is of human origin, it will destroy itself. But if it comes from God, you will not be able to destroy them; you may even find yourselves fighting against God." [Acts]
APRIL 29 ST. CATHERINE OF SIENA, O.P. - Dominican Laywoman, Virgin and Doctor of the Church
These words were spoken by a respected rabbi (St. Paul's teacher), Gamaliel! They were pivotal in giving some "slack" to the first Christian preachers. It wouldn't last long, but the irony in the statement about "fighting against God!" would prove to be true!
Catherine of Siena was a remarkable woman by almost any measure. She began as one of 20+ children of her parents in Siena, became a contemplative hermit in her own home and then left that to become a social activist as a member of a lay group of women associated with the Dominicans. This group was composed of mostly widows and elderly ladies and they were worried that Catherine might not be with them long because she was of marriageable age. The group was dedicated to works of charity to the poor, which became a constant in her life. However, she also was called upon to perform diplomatic missions in the disputes between city states in Italy as well as with the pope living in Avignon at the time. Her extreme penitential practices shortened her life and she died in her 30's. On the spiritual level, she is noted for her DIALOGS, dictated to secretaries and her Dominican friar friend, Raymond of Capua, as well as her letters and prayers which are all available to us today. We Dominicans honor her as one of our greatest preachers.
The words of Gamaliel would prove true in Catherine's own life because she met with considerable opposition, especially in her diplomatic missions, but also in her own family when she refused to go along with their plans for her. Her perseverance in her faith in God's call to her echo the faith of the early disciples. St. Catherine of Siena, pray for us! AMEN