St. Catherine de Ricci

St. Catherine de Ricci was a Dominican nun and mystic who experienced visions of Christ’s Passion and bore the stigmata. She was known for her wisdom, leadership, and deep spiritual life. Despite her mystical experiences, she remained humble and obedient, serving as prioress of her convent for many years.

St. Catherine de Ricci was born as Alessandra Lucrezia Romola de’ Ricci on April 23, 1522, in Florence, Italy, into a noble and wealthy family. From an early age, she demonstrated a deep sense of piety and was drawn to religious life. She was particularly devoted to prayer and contemplation, often seeking solitude to reflect on the mysteries of Christ.

At the age of six, she was placed under the care of the Benedictine nuns of Monticelli, where she was introduced to a life of discipline and prayer. However, she felt called to a stricter religious order and, at the age of 14, entered the Dominican convent of San Vincenzo in Prato, where she took the name Catherine in honor of St. Catherine of Siena.

From a young age, Catherine experienced mystical visions of Christ’s Passion and was granted the stigmata—the wounds of Christ—on her hands, feet, and side. These visions often lasted for hours, during which she would relive Christ’s suffering. She also had the extraordinary gift of bilocation, which allowed her to appear in different places at once. It was said that she appeared to St. Philip Neri in Rome, even though she had never left her convent.

Despite her mystical experiences, Catherine was known for her humility, obedience, and wisdom. She held various positions within the convent, eventually becoming prioress at the age of 30. Under her leadership, the convent flourished spiritually and maintained strict adherence to the Dominican rule. She was also sought after as a spiritual guide, corresponding with many influential figures of her time, including Pope Clement VIII and St. Charles Borromeo.

Catherine’s devotion to Christ’s Passion was the central theme of her spirituality. Every Thursday and Friday, she would enter into ecstasy, reliving Christ’s suffering on the cross. These experiences were thoroughly examined by Church authorities, who concluded that they were authentic mystical phenomena.

Despite her suffering, Catherine remained active in her duties, showing great concern for the well-being of her fellow sisters. She was gentle yet firm, ensuring that her convent was a place of deep prayer and devotion. She also promoted the importance of contemplation and charity, encouraging her sisters to care for the poor.

After a long life of suffering and service, St. Catherine de Ricci died on February 2, 1590, at the age of 67. Her reputation for holiness and miracles spread quickly, leading to her canonization by Pope Benedict XIV in 1746. Her body was found incorrupt, further confirming her sanctity.

Today, St. Catherine de Ricci is honored as a mystic, stigmatist, and spiritual guide. She is an inspiration to those who seek a deeper union with Christ through prayer, suffering, and contemplation.

Feast Day

13-2-

Birth Date

23-4-1522

Died Date

2-2-1590

Canonised Date

29-6-1746

San Vincenzo Ferrer Convent, Prato, Italy

"Saint Casimir, beloved protector of youth and purity, Pray for us that we may follow your example of faith, devotion, and humility. Guide us in our struggles, strengthen our hearts with courage, And lead us closer to the love of Christ. Amen."
ST. CATHERINE DE RICCI

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ST. CATHERINE DE RICCI

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