St. Catherine of Alexandria

St. Catherine is believed to have been born in Alexandria of a noble family, in the third century A.D.. Converted to Christianity through a vision, she denounced Maxentius for persecuting Christians. Maxentius offered Catherine a royal marriage if she would deny the Faith. Her refusal landed her in prison. While in prison, and while Maxentius was away, Catherine converted Maxentius' wife and two hundred of his soldiers. He had them all put to death.

Catherine was likewise condemned to death. She was put on a spiked wheel, and when the wheel broke, she was beheaded.

She is venerated as the patroness of philosophers and preachers. Her Feast Day is November 25.