Today’s readings make me think of innocence, but the word itself has multiple meanings and layers just like the two stories for today. Of course, innocence can mean free from guilt and crime. It can also mean the innocence that accompanies childhood and the nostalgia for the time before one had to face the occasional harsh realities of the world. Each of the meanings of innocence calls upon an idea of purity. Almost a year ago, during Easter Vigil, I washed off my worldly sins in the baptismal font. When I think of this moment, I remember a profound sense of closeness with God after emerging from the water as well as purity.

Every Lent, God calls us to a similar sort of purity as we prepare to either take or renew our baptismal vows. For this reason, we abstain from worldly pleasures whether that is meat, sweets, or even habits that bring great joy. Lent shows us that the material is insignificant compared to our spiritual relationship with God. For each of us, the Lenten time can look different. Instead of judging others as we see in today’s Gospel, we should rather stay true to ourselves in figuring out our own way to deepen our relationship with God.

But, how does this play out on a societal scale? What does innocence mean in the context of these two stories of women who are accused by men in positions of power? March is Women’s History Month. Today’s reading gives us the great role model of Susanna who is raised by her parents to be God-fearing. In a time of great tribulation and great social inequality between genders, Susanna places her faith in God and chooses to remain innocent in the eyes of God. Because of this, her innocence is proven before she can be condemned. Her story teaches us to not only remain true to yourself, but also to be unafraid to stand before unjust power. The readings tell us not to be so quick to condemn the innocent and less powerful, but also to give them a voice to speak.

According to the New York Times, researchers have estimated that women’s stories make up just 0.5% of recorded history. The bible and the saints offer a great number of women role models. During my baptism, I took the name Catherine to honor St. Catherine of Alexandria who used her intellect to stand by her faith even when tortured and condemned to death. What women Catholics inspire you?