 Much of Catherine's heartfelt distress and much of her intercessory prayer and penance was rooted in her seeing a church and a state beleaguered by the weaknesses of both religious and secular authorities. She knew that the corruption of those in leadership would do immeasurable harm to those they were appointed to lead. Despite many who strive for reform in today's society and church, St. Catherine did not correct in order to contradict, but rather to convert. She was a flame with the desire to see many drawn to Christ.