Saint Catherine of Alexandria

Daughter of Constus the Governor of Alexandria during the reign of Emperor Maxentius

AD 287-305

Born: Alexandria, Egypt

Survived: scourging, imprisoned, starved, a spiked breaking wheel

Died: Alexandria, Egypt, beheaded Patron saint of librarians, students, lawyers, and philosophers

A courageous young woman who feared no one on this earth including those in extremely powerful positions Saint Catherine was an intelligent representation of her faith. Having rebuked Emperor Maxentius for his persecutions she was challenged by over 50 of Maxentius’ pagan philosophers. Catherine won the debate and the hearts of many for Jesus. After this exchange she was violently scourged, was ordered to be starved, as well as imprisoned. Catherine was miraculously restored by angels and fed by doves which led her to not give into the suffering that was placed upon her. Despite the persecution many visited Saint Catherine in prison. Outside visitations from over 200 people led many to follow Jesus and all who were converted were all put to death, including Emperor Maxentius’ wife.

Drawn as if in front of a piece of papyrus was to remind the viewer of Saint Catherine’s Egyptian roots. Catherine holds the Martyr’s palm and stands by the spiked breaking wheel. Holding the sword is not only the way in which she ultimately died but also to a biblical text that says that Christians must hold the sword of the Spirit which is a reference to the knowledge Christians must hold of the biblical truth. Catherine not only knew her faith enough to spar with intellectuals but had the relationship with God that helped her endure the confrontation with religious persecution.

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