The feast day of St. Gertrude Caterina Comensoli is celebrated on Feb. 18.
St. Gertrude was born in Biennio Brescia, Italy in 1837 into a large family. From early childhood she was always aware of the presence of God, especially in the Eucharist. She was drawn to prayer in the presence of the tabernacle. At the age of 15, Gertrude wanted to join the convent. Because of illness she was forced to wait. She worked as a domestic worker for a priest.
St. Gertrude was concerned about the transition of Italy’s rural society into an industrial one. She gained a private audience with Pope Leo XIII who encouraged her to do something which focused on the education of young women.
On Dec. 15, 1882 she founded the Congregation of the Sacramentine Sisters of Bergamo. It’s focus was on adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and education. The sisters committed their lives to prayer and helping those who were most in need.
St. Gertrude died of natural causes while praying in adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in 1903.
Arm yourself with prayer rather than a sword,
wear humility rather than fine clothes.
Quote of St. Dominic; Feast day August 8
February is the Month of the Passion of the Lord