Catherine was born in Siena, Italy, in 1347, one of the youngest of a large family, and from childhood reported mystical experiences that shaped her deep prayer life. She joined the Dominican tertiaries (laywomen affiliated with the order rather than cloistered nuns) and became known for both intense mysticism and active charitable work among the poor and sick.
She became an influential voice in Church affairs, corresponding with popes and rulers, and is credited with playing a significant role in convincing Pope Gregory XI to return the papacy from Avignon to Rome in 1377, ending a nearly seventy-year period of the papal court residing in France. She died in Rome in 1380 at only 33, and was declared a Doctor of the Church in 1970.
Saint Catherine of Siena
Mystic and Doctor of the Church
An Italian Dominican tertiary and mystic whose influence helped return the papacy to Rome, honored as a Doctor of the Church.
- Born
- 1347
- Died
- 1380
- Birthplace
- Siena, Italy
- Died in
- Rome, Italy
- Country
- Italy
- Canonised
- 1461-06-29
- Century
- 14th century
Why People Pray to Saint Catherine of Siena
Saint Catherine is invoked by those seeking courage to speak truth to those in authority, and by mystics and contemplatives.
