Biography
Saint Catherine of Alexandria is honored as a martyr and saint in both the Catholic and Orthodox traditions. According to ancient Christian accounts, she lived in Alexandria, Egypt, and suffered martyrdom around the year 305, during the reign of Emperor Maxentius. Tradition describes her as a princess and a brilliant scholar who embraced the Christian faith as a teenager, fearlessly proclaimed it, converted many others, and gave her life for Christ at about eighteen years of age. Although no original historical records about her survive, the enduring devotion to her name and the transmission of her story through centuries witness to her holiness and the inspiration she has provided to believers. Saint Catherine is counted among the Fourteen Holy Helpers, and the Church commemorates her feast on November 25. While her story’s historical details have been debated the Church continues to venerate her as a model of faith, wisdom, and great courage. Her feast was removed from the General Roman Calendar in 1969 but restored in 2002 as an optional memorial. Note: Optional Memorials and Commemorations are optional celebrations and, at present, we do not include content specific to these special days. This “About Today” is provided so that you can celebrate this Saint as you worship Christ. Thank you for praying with us. If you feel called, your Lenten offering helps carry this prayer to more hearts and languages. Contribute now