Post date: Apr 26, 2013 2:27:27 PM
As Fr. John told us on the 23rd April, we know very little about St George, the patron saint of England. It is thought that he lived during the 4th century, in Asia Minor, during the reign of the Roman Emperor, Diocletian. He was a courageous soldier in the Roman army, achieving the rank of Tribune; but was then faced with the choice of declaring that he was a Christian, leading to torture and death, or to renounce his faith and be rewarded with land and wealth. In choosing martyrdom, he fought and slew the “dragon” which was the symbol of evil, paganism and oppression.
We know much more about St Catherine of Siena, a doctor of the church and secondary patron saint of St Hugh’s parish, whose feast day is celebrated on 29th April. She lived in the 14th century, during a time of great turmoil when there were 2 contenders for the Chair of St Peter. She gained a reputation for holiness while still very young; and was not afraid to speak her mind. She had a long correspondence with Pope Gregory XI urging him to move back to Rome from Avignon, and also advised his successor Pope Urban VI. Catherine died in Rome in 1380 aged 33. Her connection with Lincoln is that she had an English Secretary, William Fleet, who came from an Augustinian House situated on the corner of Newport and Rasen Lane.
It is good to have the example of the saints to inspire us, and to remind us that we are all
members of Christ’s Body, the Church. We hope to join the Communion of Saints, eventually, and to enjoy with them Life Everlasting.
At St Hugh’s the next Year of Faith discussion group will take place on Sat. 18th May after 10am Mass until 12noon. Bishop Malcolm’s theme for May is The Church and the Creed.