Catherine of Siena – Patroness of the Congregation
Catherine of Siena (25 March 1347 – 29 April 1380). Born and raised in Siena, Italy. A lay Dominican, a mystic, activist and author who had a great influence on Italian literature and the Catholic Church. Canonized in 1461. She is also a Doctor of the Church.
Sr. Suzanne Noffke writes, “In Catherine’s vision it is only on the bridge of Jesus crucified, the bridge of dying-into-life, that we can travel securely – not painlessly or comfortably, but securely – to our evolving identity and to our evolving mission.” And regarding the vineyard, she refers to Catherine’s own words: “Keep in mind that each of you has your own vineyard. But everyone is joined to your neighbours’ vineyards without any dividing lines. They are so joined together that you cannot do good or evil for yourself without doing the same for your neighbours. All of us together, make up one common vineyard…” (Dialogue, 23)
Looking at a Dominican Future Through Catherine’s Eyes. Suzanne Noffke,OP, Northeast Dominican Six, November 17, 2007.
May the patron of our Congregation bring us wisdom, insight, courage and creativity to enable us to fulfil our mission in our time, where ever we are.
