St. Catherine of Alexandria (Feast Day November 25) 

d. 310 

Catherine of Alexandria was born around 287 in Alexandria, Egypt. At that time, Alexandria was one of the finest cities in the world, and a center of learning and culture as well as faith. Christian tradition states that she was of noble birth, possibly a princess, and very well-educated. Around the age of fourteen, she experienced a moving vision of Mary and the infant Jesus, and she decided to become a Christian.

When she was only eighteen years old, Catherine presented herself to the Emperor Maxentius who was violently persecuting the Christians, denounced him for his cruelty, and endeavored to prove that worship of false gods was wrong. Astounded at the young girl's audacity, but unable to provide an argument against her position, the tyrant detained her in his palace and summoned fifty philosophers to debate her. However, Catherine was moved by the power of the Holy Spirit and spoke eloquently in defense of her faith and emerged from the debate victorious. Her words were so moving that several of the pagans converted to Christianity and were immediately executed. Maxentius was furious and had Catherine scourged and then imprisoned. During her imprisonment more than 200 people came to see her, including Maxentius' wife. All converted to Christianity and were subsequently martyred. Twelve days later, when the dungeon was opened, a bright light and fragrant perfume filled the space, and Catherine came forth even more radiant and beautiful. Soon afterwards, the saint was condemned to die on a spiked wheel, but, at her touch, this instrument of torture was miraculously shattered. The Emperor, enraged beyond control, then had her beheaded. Angels carried her body to Mount Sinai where later a church and monastery were build in her honor.

·       What does Jesus command us to do in today’s Gospel?

·       How can we “go and proclaim the Gospel to every creature”?

·       Jesus said that great signs will accompany those who proclaim the Gospel. Where does that power come from?

·       Explain how the power of the Holy Spirit moved in young Catherine of Alexandria. What would happen if you opened yourself up to the power of the Holy Spirit?

Create a Spiritual Bouquet

This Mother's Day, create a spiritual bouquet for your mother or a mother-figure in your life. Invite each member of the family to write down one way they will pray for that person. Ideas include praying a specific prayer, giving up something you enjoy on their behalf (fasting), or trying a new prayer style. These offerings can each be written on a piece of paper that is decorated to look like a flower. Combine all the “flowers” to give as a bouquet, then be sure to pray for that person in the way you offered.

Chicken Cacciatore Slow Cooker Recipe

Let the crockpot cook dinner while you proclaim the Gospel to others today.

1 bag frozen chicken breast tenderloins

1 -14oz. can tomato paste

1/3-1/2 cup red cooking wine

4-5 whole cloves garlic chopped

3 jars tomato basil sauce

whole mushrooms

¼ tsp. dried basil

¼ tsp. black pepper

¼ tsp. red pepper flakes

¼ tsp. salt

1 chopped red pepper

Optional:

sliced/diced onion

dried rosemary – ¼ tsp.

Combine all ingredients in crock pot. Cook on low for 7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Prayer Over Family Members

Jesus, our Lord, we worship you. You are our brother and our Savior. We look forward to the glory of Heaven, but until that time, you have commissioned us to proclaim the Gospel.

Bless us, Lord, and help us be a blessing to others.

[Pray the following prayer individually over each family member. Invite everyone else to place their hand on the person’s shoulder.]

Bless [name of family member] and give [name] the grace and wisdom he/she needs for this day and strength for carrying out your will. Help [name] proclaim the Good News of Jesus in word and deed today and always.

Help us to always seek you, Lord. We look to you for guidance, strength, and all that we need. Amen.

What are the last words that are said by the priest or deacon at the end of Mass? In what way do these words remind you of today’s Gospel?

Decide on one way your family can proclaim the Gospel to your neighbors and friends.

On Mother’s Day, more phone calls are made than any other day of the year.