Holy Women to Befriend in the Heart of Winter

Sarah Damm introduces Catholic moms to six February saints whose lives offer inspiration and support during the long days of winter.

Here in the upper Midwest, February feels like the longest month of the year, despite having fewer days. The Christmas glow has faded, and spring still feels distant. Yet the routines of motherhood press on, quietly unnoticed, leaving us vulnerable to winter blues.  

In her goodness, the Church offers companions for this season: holy women with February feast days, saints who knew deep hope despite enduring darkness.  

What if this month, instead of pushing through the cold alone, we befriend one of these saints to walk with us?  

Here are six female saints whose lives speak beautifully to Catholic mothers in the midst of winter. 

Saint Brigid (February 1) 

Born in 453, Brigid’s father was an Irish chieftain and her mother a slave in his court. From a young age, Brigid was known for her generosity, often helping the poor and sick with her own belongings. When a marriage was arranged for her, she refused and went on to found convents across Ireland.  

What she teaches us:

In February, we crave comfort — a cozy home, a warm meal, a glowing candle. Let Saint Brigid inspire us to bring warmth to our loved ones through a pot of soup, a note in a lunchbox, or a hug after a long day. 

Saint Agatha (February 5) 

Consecrated to God at a young age, Agatha endured great suffering for her faith. When imprisoned, Saint Peter miraculously appeared and healed her wounds. She still died a martyr’s death and is one of the seven women named in the Canon of the Mass.  

What she teaches us:

As mothers, we carry hidden suffering, like illness, anxiety, or worry for our children. Saint Agatha shows that strength is not the absence of pain, but fidelity in the midst of it. Today, offer one difficult situation to God through her intercession. 

Saint Dorothy (February 6) 

This fourth-century virgin martyr was the daughter of a Roman senator. She converted to Christianity and urged her family to stop worshipping idols. Dorothy endured persecution and torture, persevering in faith. According to tradition, she promised heavenly fruit and flowers to a skeptic, which appeared to him at the moment of her martyrdom.  

What she teaches us:

February can feel barren, both in nature and spirituality. Saint Dorothy reminds us that growth in the garden of our hearts begins in a hidden manner, flourishing through God’s grace. On her feast day, place a small plant or bouquet near your prayer space as a reminder of God’s promises. 

Saint Josephine Bakhita (February 8) 

Kidnapped and sold into slavery at seven, Josephine Bakhita eventually arrived in Italy, where she encountered the Canossian Sisters and asked to be baptized. When the family who owned her wanted to return to Africa, she refused, and the courts granted her freedom. Josephine Bakhita entered the Institute of Saint Magdalene of Canossa in 1893 and made her profession three years later.  

What she teaches us:

Saint Josephine Bakhita encourages women who carry past wounds into motherhood and feel unworthy of such an important vocation. She shows that healing is possible with God. Today, pray for healing and forgiveness — for yourself and your family. 

Saint Scholastica (February 10) 

The twin sister of Saint Benedict, Scholastica is considered the first Benedictine nun. She lived near Benedict but only saw him once a year. On their last visit, knowing her death was close, she prayed, and a storm kept Benedict with her longer than planned.   

What she teaches us: 

In ordinary life, Saint Scholastica invites us to prayer and contemplation. Even when our quiet service seems unnoticed, God sees us, hears our prayers, and remains close. This month, set aside ten minutes each day to simply sit with God, trusting your heart to Him, even in the midst of life’s storms. 

Saint Margaret of Cortona (February 22) 

Margaret’s mother died when she was seven, and life with her stepmother was difficult. She moved out, and for nine years she lived with Arsenio, though they were not married. She bore a son. After discovering Arsenio murdered, Margaret turned to a life of penance. Three years after her conversion, she became a Franciscan tertiary. She established a hospital, founded a congregation of sisters, and led a life devoted to the Eucharist and Christ’s Passion.  

What she teaches us:

Saint Margaret is a saint of second chances, reminding us that no story is too messy for God’s mercy. This month, go to the Sacrament of Confession, trusting God to make all things new. 

Walking Through Winter Together 

As mothers, we may not feel radiant this time of year, but these holy women are beacons of Christ’s light for us. They remind us that holiness grows quietly, in hidden perseverance, repentance, prayer, and love.   

This February, choose one saint to befriend. Learn her story and ask for her prayers. Let her walk with you until spring blooms again in nature and in your heart. 

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Copyright 2026 Sarah Damm
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