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Feast Day: June 17
Blessed Caterina Della Colonna, also known as Catherine of Column, was a devout Poor Clare nun who lived during the 16th century. She was a highly respected member of the Santa Chiara of Belalcázar convent in Cordoba, Spain, where she served as the novice mistress for many years, guiding and instructing young women who wished to dedicate their lives to God.
Although there is limited information available about her early life, Blessed Caterina's unwavering faith and dedication to the religious life became evident during her time at the Santa Chiara convent. Her profound spiritual wisdom and commitment to her vocation earned her the respect and admiration of her fellow sisters.
Among those who were profoundly touched by Blessed Caterina's teachings was Sister Maria di Sant’Antonio, one of the novices under her guidance. Sister Maria had a remarkable vision wherein she saw the soul of her beloved teacher ascending to heaven in the form of a white dove. This extraordinary experience served as a testament to the profound impact that Blessed Caterina had on the spiritual formation of her followers.
Blessed Caterina's life was characterized by her humility, simplicity, and deep devotion to her faith. She embraced the ideals of the Poor Clares, a Franciscan order known for their commitment to poverty and contemplation. Through her own spiritual journey and her role as the novice mistress, she exemplified the virtues of the order, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.
While the exact details of her birth and death are not known, it is believed that Blessed Caterina passed away around the year 1575, succumbing to natural causes. Her legacy, however, continued to live on. The vision experienced by Sister Maria di Sant'Antonio served as a source of veneration for Blessed Caterina, for it was a sign of her soul's heavenly ascent.
Although Blessed Caterina's formal beatification and canonization status remain unspecified, her memory is kept alive by those who were fortunate enough to have encountered her teachings and witness her profound spirituality. Her life serves as an inspiration for current and future generations, demonstrating the transformative power of faith, humility, and devotion to God.