Simple, life-giving practices to help us walk more closely with God, one breath at a time
As part of our Mission Action Plan (Signs of the Kingdom), Holy Habits invites us to find ways of drawing near to God in the ordinary moments of life. This month we take inspiration from St Catherine of Siena (1347–1380), a woman of extraordinary courage and blazing love for God.
Catherine once wrote, “Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire.”
Her life was certainly proof of that. A laywoman, mystic, and peacemaker, she advised popes, nursed plague victims, and challenged corruption in both church and society, all flowing from her deep life of prayer. Catherine teaches us that holiness is not a quiet escape from the world, but a passionate engagement with it.
For her, the spiritual life began in the heart, where God’s love burns like a flame. But that flame is not meant to stay contained, it sends us out to love, to serve, and to speak truth. Catherine’s fire is the courage to live as people whose lives are lit by the love of Christ.
How to Practise Catherine’s Fire
- Morning Spark:
When you wake, pray Catherine’s simple prayer:
“Lord, kindle in me the fire of your love.”
Ask God to help you live with warmth, courage, and conviction today. - Midday Check-In:
When you face something difficult or discouraging, pause and whisper:
“Set me ablaze with your love.”
Let that love renew your strength. - Evening Reflection:
At day’s end, think of one moment when God’s love burned brightly, in an act of kindness, a word of truth, or a spark of joy, and give thanks.
Why Try It?
Catherine’s Fire reminds us that the Christian life is not meant to smoulder quietly in the background; it’s meant to shine and warm others. God calls each of us, in our homes, workplaces, and communities, to be living flames of love.
So this month, let your faith catch light again. Be who God made you to be… and you will set the world on fire.