Saint Catherine of Alexandria is honored as a young virgin martyr of the early fourth century, who according to tradition was a learned woman of Alexandria in Egypt. Tradition holds that she defended the Christian faith before the emperor Maxentius, confounding the pagan philosophers sent to debate her, and was put to death for refusing to deny Christ. Devotion to her spread widely through the Church, and she is remembered as a patron of students, philosophers, and all who seek wisdom.
Catherine shows that faith and intelligence belong together — she loved God with her whole mind as well as her whole heart, and she stayed faithful even when it cost her everything. Her courage reminds us that the truth is worth standing for gently and firmly, no matter who is listening. She is a beautiful companion for young people who love to learn and to ask big questions.
Saint Catherine of Alexandria, wise and brave, pray for us and for Ben, that we may love the truth, hold fast to Christ, and one day see Him face to face. Amen.