July 24
Christopher of Saint Catherine (1638–1690)
Founding priest
Practical advice
Perform a humble bodily service today to a sick or dependent person, without delegating it or doing it in a hurry.
Biography
Spanish priest and hospital founder, Cristóbal de Santa Catalina made the Gospel visible by personally caring for the sick and abandoned poor. After serving as a nurse and military chaplain, he sought a life of prayer in the mountains of Córdoba, but the needs of the people brought him back to the city. He founded the Hospital de Jesús Nazareno and the religious family that would continue his work, supporting it through alms and direct service. He died of infection while caring for those affected by an epidemic.
Example of
Spirit of servicePrayerFounding spirit