Gospel in Art: Feast of Saint Catherine of Siena

Saint Catherine of Siena, Prima Pars page. Here begynneth the orcharde of Syon, in the whiche is conteyned the Revelacyons of Seynt Katheryne of Sene, with ghostly fruytes and precyous plants for the helthe of mannes soule. Published by Wyn

Source: Christian Art

Gospel of 29 April 2025
Matthew 11:25-30

At that time Jesus declared, 'I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.'

Reflection on the Printed Book Page

Today we celebrate the feast of Saint Catherine of Siena, born in 1347. She was the 25th child in her family, born to a mother who was 40 years old at the time-an extraordinary beginning to an extraordinary life. Her birth coincided with a devastating outbreak of the plague in Siena.

Catherine did not enter a convent, but instead joined the Third Order of Saint Dominic, which allowed her to live at home while still sharing in the spirituality and mission of the Dominican order.

She embraced a life of deep prayer and contemplation, during which she experienced regular mystical visions. These culminated in a profound and rare spiritual grace known as the 'mystical marriage', symbolising an extraordinary union with God granted to only a few great mystics.

In our Gospel reading today, Jesus thanks his Father for "hiding these things from the learned and clever and revealing them to mere children." Saint Catherine embodies this very openness and purity of heart. Her faith was marked by a child-like simplicity, not to be confused with childishness, combined with a trustful, humble receptivity to God's truth. Jesus reminds us that the mysteries of the Kingdom are often hidden from those who rely solely on intellect, and instead revealed to those who are open, willing to learn, and pure of heart, just like Saint Catherine. Mind and heart always going hand in hand.

Our featured artwork today is a very early printed book on Saint Catherine of Siena, published in 1519 by Wynkyn de Worde, one of the pioneering printers in England who helped spread the use of the printing press. The woodcut illustration shows Saint Catherine holding her heart in her left hand, bearing the stigmata in both hands, and being infused with the Holy Spirit, who is shown descending from God the Father above. This striking image captures her deep spirituality and profound connection with God.

Saint Catherine died at the age of just 33, having made a lasting impact on the Church and the world. I leave you with one of her most memorable and stirring quotes:

"Be who God meant you to be, and you will set the world on fire."

LINKS

Gospel in Art: https://christian.art/
Today's Reflection: https://christian.art/daily-gospel-reading/matthew-11-25-30-2025/ (with audio)