St. Brigid or St. Bridget of Sweden is one of the most powerful women, who have graced Mother Church with their love and faithfulness. A little brusque at times, or as a dear Bishop once called Penny - a little forthright; she was considered a Prophet to Pope Gregory, as was St. Catherine of Siena. But whereas the Pope himself called her a Prophet, he did not have the fond affection toward her that he had for St. Catherine, who was strong like St. Brigid but gentle.
St. Brigid, like St. Catherine was a Mystic! She had the courage to speak out strongly on the need for reform. She boldly attacked the corruption and politics in the Church! Now both powerful women felt the same about Mother Church. But whereas St. Brigid spoke of gloom and doom, St. Catherine called the Church a garden with beautiful flowers having been allowed to grow wild, with weeds in its midst choking it. Whereas both desired the Pope return to Rome, it was gentle Catherine who accomplished it. Or could it be that like St. John the Baptist, St. Brigid led the way for St. Catherine?
