Saints Over Socials

Cait Winters discusses the effects of social media and the temptation to comparison it invites, in contrast to the joy of a simple life.

Social media can be a great source of information and inspiration. As an evangelistic faith, it can be a great way for Christians to reach out, because let's face it — it's where the people are! What social media may not always be, and this includes content from Catholic influencers, is official Church teaching. The Catechism says nothing about being required to do the most! 

A Caution Against a Curated Life of Faith

Catholicism, though clearly defined, is an umbrella of faith. There are many different vocations and ways to live it out. I’ve fallen into the social-media comparison trap before. Beautiful homes, extravagant celebrations and seemingly perfect lives can be so enticing it's easy to forget that it’s often curated. Intentionally created with an audience in mind. Sometimes it can make you question, “Is what I’m doing enough?” 

Influencers today can reach many people. They can set a standard that, while aesthetically pleasing, is not always the best or only way to live. I am blessed to reside in a small village in a humble home filled with love. I am so grateful but sometimes I’m tempted to wish for a more glamorous or exciting life. “Then,” I think, “I’ll be aspirational, too!”  

The Real Catholic Influencers  

I was convicted of this comparison trap recently when I came across a photo of Saint Teresa of Avila’s bedroom: stark white walls, a nook to write below a window, a crucifix, a small shelf, and a block of wood (for a pillow) on a small, frameless bed. Many  religious sleep in simple rooms with penitential elements (known as cells), or even in a large room with many beds (called dormitories). Outside of these personal spaces they share much and own little.  

I remember visiting a local order of Dominican nuns and being struck by the mostly empty walls and minimal furniture. Often there would be just one or two icons or pieces of religious art. The living space reflected the state of their hearts. Jesus is the focus, faith is the beauty, and their obedience is extravagant. These are the true Catholic influencers! Saint Teresa is a Doctor of the Church after all!  

She didn’t always remain in that cell; she was made Mother Superior (a title she never aspired to herself) and had a much larger and more elaborate space. There’s nothing wrong with that at all; it’s beautiful when God gives us more than we need! Beauty can draw us into goodness and reveal a deeper truth. Still, that small white room had a greater impact on me than any social post ever could.  

When I see her unembellished room, I can’t help but think of her work, The Interior Castle. What may seem like a plain outer life cannot begin to express the architecture of a soul formed by Jesus Christ.  

When I drive by the same old street, wash the same floors and clothes and dishes, and live the same routine day to day, there is joy. I see how it leaves God room to work — and that’s the greatest treasure I can have.  

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Copyright 2025 Cait Winters
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