March marks the celebration of Women’s month, it is a time that we remember the strife and courage women had to partake in order to be equal in our modern society. For much of its history the Holy Mother Church has been primarily led by men, who are called in the service of the church primarily through the priesthood and the leadership of the Holy magisterium. Contrary to what other people may say, even though the structure of the church is patriarchal, the church holds women in great respect, this is shown through our veneration to the Holy Mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary. Many of the faithful of our church show their filial devotion to Mary. We pray for her intercession as she is the closest to our Lord Jesus, The Theotokos, the Mother of God.
As a Dominican Community we are ever blessed that throughout history, the Dominican Order has given the Church remarkable saints who have exemplified holiness and service to God. This Women’s Month, we reflect on three extraordinary Dominican women saints—St. Catherine of Siena, St. Rose of Lima, and St. Agnes of Montepulciano—who have left an indelible mark on the Church. Their lives continue to inspire Catholic women today to live out their faith boldly and passionately.
1. St. Catherine of Siena (1347–1380): The Peacemaker and Doctor of the Church
St. Catherine of Siena, joined as a Third Order Dominican, a congregation of laywomen in Siena at age 15. She was a mystic, theologian, and peacemaker. Despite being uneducated, her profound spiritual insights earned her the title of Doctor of the Church. Catherine courageously counseled popes, calling for reform and unity during a tumultuous period in Church history. Her writings, such as The Dialogue, reveal her deep love for God and humanity.
2. St. Rose of Lima (1586–1617): The Mystic of the Americas
St. Rose of Lima, the first canonized saint of the Americas, at a young age she joined the Third Order Dominicans taking St. Catherine of Siena as her role model. Being of noble birth her parents brought her many potential spouses, but the calling of God was strong in her and she was insistent on not taking on suitors in marriage, leading her to cut her own hair. She known for her exceptional piety and devotion. She lived a life of penance and cared for the sick and poor in her community. Rose’s life was a testament to her deep union with Christ, often expressed through her profound mystical experiences.
3. St. Agnes of Montepulciano (1268–1317): The Abbess of Purity
St. Agnes, a Dominican nun, became abbess of her convent at just 15 years old due to her extraordinary holiness and wisdom. She was known for her miracles, including visions of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Agnes’s life was one of humility, prayer, and devotion to Christ, her unwavering faith is a testament of God’s love for all of us. If we let Christ fill our hearts endless blessings and miracles will shower our lives and those around us.
The lives of these Dominican saints are timeless reminders of how faith, humility, and love can transform the world. To the women in our community and the Church I call upon you to emulate these Saints. Women of the Church can emulate St. Catherine by advocating for peace and reconciliation in their own communities. Her life encourages us to combine deep prayer with bold action, addressing challenges with faith and love. Seeking unity, Like St. Catherine, we may be a voice for reconciliation and peace in your relationships and community. Serving selflessly as St. Rose, by caring for the poor and the sick, finding holiness in acts of service. Modern Catholic women can dedicate their lives to serving others, particularly the marginalized and vulnerable. Finally, Pursuing Holiness, follow St. Agnes’s example by dedicating yourself to prayer and a pure heart, relying on God’s grace.
As we honor these saintly women during Women’s Month, may their lives inspire Catholic women everywhere to live their faith courageously and joyfully.
Written By: Enrico Estrella III