And you may be certain of this–unless you really are more ignorant than anyone — that the arm of holy Church, though it may well be weak, is not broken. From its weakness this arm always emerges strengthened, as do those who stay close to it.
–Saint Catherine of Siena (1347-1380)
You must believe in truth that whatever God gives or permits is for your salvation.
–Saint Catherine of Siena (1347-1380)
The secret of Christian contemplation is that it faces us with Jesus Christ toward our suffering world in loving service and just action.
–Saint Catherine of Siena (1347-1380)
Preach the Truth as if you had a million voices. It is silence that kills the world. –Saint Catherine of Siena (1347-1380)
Do you know the condition of the soul who receives unworthily? She is like a candle on which water has fallen, which can do nothing but crackle when brought near the flame, for no sooner has the fire touched it, than it is extinguished, and nothing remains but smoke.
–Saint Catherine of Siena (1347-1380)
Penance to be sure must be used as a tool, in due times and places, as need may be. If the flesh, being too strong, kicks against the spirit, penance takes the rod of discipline, and fast, and the cilice of many buds, and mighty vigils; and places burdens enough on the flesh, that it may be more subdued. But if the body is weak, fallen into illness, the rule of discretion does not approve of such a method.
–Saint Catherine of Siena (1347-1380)
