Saint Catherine of Siena

1347 – 1380

Action and activism are the essence of Saint Catherine of Siena. Passionately devoted to the salvation of mankind, she left an astounding legacy of four hundred written letters and a devotional Dialogue that are considered great classics in literature. She is credited with influencing the return of the papacy to Rome from Avignon, and for this reason she is the patroness of Italy. Known for her incredible charm, she horrified her wealthy parents by her willingness to express her devotion to Christ through corporal humiliations and long periods of fasting. Counselor and advisor to those in power, it was said that she perfected the art of kissing the Pope’s feet while simultaneously twisting his arm. Saint Catherine struggled against great odds to keep the Catholic Church united. Her novena is a call to faith in troubled times. She is invoked to engender the strength and faith for action in times when action is needed, both political and spiritual.

Novena to Saint Catherine of Siena

Heavenly Father, your glory is in your saints.

We praise your glory in the life of the admirable Saint Catherine of Siena, virgin and doctor of the church.

Her whole life was a noble sacrifice inspired by an ardent love of Jesus, your unblemished lamb.

In troubled times she strenuously upheld the rights of his beloved spouse, the church.

Father, honor her merits and hear her prayers for each of us.

Help us to pass unscathed through the corruption of this world.

Help us always to see in the Vicar of Christ an anchor in the storms of life and a beacon of light to the harbor of your love,

in this dark night of your times and men’s souls.

Grant also to each of us our special petiton.

We ask this through Jesus, your Son, in the bond of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

(Pause to pray for your intentions).

Saint Catherine of Siena, pray for us.

Say this novena nine times in a row for nine days in a row.

Saint Catherine of Siena is the patron saint of: Fire Protection, italy, Nursing Services, Activism

Her Feast Day is April 29

Excerpted from the book ‘Novena’ by Barbara Calamari and Sandra DiPasqua