St. Catherine of Alexandria (patron saint of the beguines)

St. Catherine of Alexandria is a revered Christian saint known for her wisdom, intelligence, and steadfast faith. According to tradition, she was a learned young woman from Egypt who defended Christianity against pagan ideals and pagan philosophers. She was believed to have converted many through her speeches and debates before being martyred around the early 4th century. She is the patron saint of the Beguines—a lay religious movement of women dedicated to prayer and service—because of her embodiment of intellectual pursuit and devotion. Her legacy inspires faith, learning, and perseverance in the face of persecution.