Page:Lifeofsaintcatha.djvu/236

 of which I was sole witness; when in my ministry at the Altar, (unworthy though I was of that dignity;) I presume that Almighty God intended glorifying his Name in my presence, and gave me to understand how agreeable the fidelity of his hand-maid was in his sight. I confess that I prefer not relating the fact, but in conscience I cannot remain silent, because there is question of God's honor and that of blessed Catherine.

After our return from Avignon to Sienna, we visited in the environs of the city, some servants of God, in order to console ourselves together in the Lord. We came back on the festival of St. John the Evangelist, and when we arrived at Catherine's the hour of Tierce had already passed. She turned towards me and said: " O father, did you but know how hungry my poor soul is." I understood her meaning, and rejoined: the hour of saying Mass is nearly elapsed, and I am so fatigued that it is very difficult for me to prepare myself for it. She remained silent a moment; but soon, unable to restrain the expression of her desire she said to me again: " I am famished." I then consented to yield to her request, and repaired to the chapel in her house, which had been permitted her by the Holy Father; I confessed her; I clothed myself in my sacerdotal vestments, and celebrated the Mass of the day; I consecrated one small Host for her, and when I had communicated, I turned to give her the ordinary absolution. Her countenance was angelic and beaming with light; so changed was she, that I hesitated in recognizing her, and I said interiorly: " Is the Lord truly thy faithful and beloved Spouse ? " and on turning again to the Altar, I added mentally: " Come Lord to thy Spouse." At the same instant the sacred Host, before I touched it moved, and came at more than