Saint Catherine is a role model for priority to prayer, penance and charity towards the sick. She had the gift of comforting disturbed souls and calming conflicts between cities and even entire states. Shortly before dying she said “in leaving my body, truly I have consumed and given my life in and for the Holy Church, which is for me a most unique grace.” God’s words bring salvation for the world. Jesus came to save all people so that we can be sons and daughters of God the Father. As much as we want to follow where Jesus leads, the troubles of our lives often overwhelm us. It is not always easy to see the light, even when it is right in front of us and we choose to remain in our misery, which is familiar and seeminly secure. It takes a great deal of strength to seek out the intimacy offered by Jesus. But we do not have to rely on our own strength. When we reach out through prayer, we can experience Jesus’ strength and he will do the rest.

Abba Father, we pray for humility to ask you for help and for grace to recognise when it comes to us. Amen.