For the protection of the unborn.

Catherine was a princess who was born around 1330 and is the 4th child of Saint Bridget and her husband, Ulf Gudmarsson.

At the age of 7, she was sent to the abbess of the convent in Riseberg to be educated, and like her mother, desired for a life of devotion to God.

At about the age of 13, at the command of her father, she married a nobleman of German descent, Eggart von Kurnen. He was religious and she persuaded him to join her in a vow of chastity.

Although she loved her husband, at the age of 19, she accompanied her mother to Rome and soon after learned of his death. She began imitating her mother’s ascetic life by having self-discipline, devotion and renouncing material comforts. As a beautiful princess, she was pursued by many but refused them all.

With her mother’s death, she returned and became head of the motherhouse of the Brigittine Order. There she labored to serve the poor and pregnant women who were ill or who had suffered miscarriages. She taught them life skills and Christianity.

She journeyed to Rome for her mother’s Sainthood and to obtain new papal confirmation. The schism in the Church had formed, causing confusion and delays in the process. She stayed steadfast and returned 5 years later with commendation from the Pope.

Shortly after her return, she became ill and died at the age of 50. Like her mother, she was greatly mourned by Sweden. She had been head of the convent that was founded by her mother and hence the name Catherine Vastanensis, by which she is occasionally called.

There were many reports of miracles with her works and she is the patron saint for those with difficult pregnancies, who have suffered miscarriage, for protection from miscarriage, and protection against abortion.

Her feast day is March 24.

For God’s Glory.