Our Patron Saint

St. Catherine of Siena (born March 25, 1347 in Siena, Italy; died April 29, 1380, Rome) was known for her profound spirituality, political influence and theological writings. One of the patron saints of Italy, she was declared a doctor of the church in 1970 and a patron saint of Europe in 1999.

Catherine was the youngest of 25 children, daughter of Jacopo and Lapa Benincasa. At a young age, she is said to have consecrated herself to Christ and experienced mystical visions, while giving generously to those in need. Catherine became a tertiary of the Dominican order, joining the Sisters of Penitence of St. Dominic in Siena.

Her ministry eventually moved beyond her local community, and Catherine began to travel and promote church reform. She spent the last years of her life in Rome, during the Great Schism, and advocated tirelessly for a unified Church and the return of the papacy to Rome. Catherine’s writings include about 380 letters, 26 prayers and 4 treatises.

She was canonized in 1461 and her feast day is celebrated on April 29.

St. Catherine of Siena, pray for us!