author
Saint of Siena Catherine
1347–1380
A bold mystic, letter-writer, and peacemaker, this 14th-century saint spoke with unusual courage in a time of political and religious turmoil. Her spiritual writings, especially The Dialogue, have kept her voice alive for centuries.
2 Audiobooks
Libro della divina dottrina: Dialogo della divina provvidenza
by Saint of Siena Catherine
Letters of Catherine Benincasa
by Saint of Siena Catherine
About the author
Born in Siena, Italy, on March 25, 1347, Catherine of Siena became one of the most influential religious figures of her time. Though she never entered a convent in the usual way, she joined the lay branch of the Dominican order and devoted herself to prayer, care for the sick, and service to the poor.
She is remembered not only for her intense spiritual life but also for her public courage. Through letters and personal appeals, she urged church and political leaders toward peace and reform, and she is especially known for pressing for the papacy's return to Rome. Her major work, The Dialogue, helped secure her lasting reputation as a spiritual teacher.
Catherine died in Rome on April 29, 1380. She was canonized in 1461 and was later named a Doctor of the Church, an honor given to saints whose writings and teaching have had enduring importance.