St. Catherine of Palma was a Spanish religious sister and mystic known for her deep humility, mystical experiences, and the incorrupt state of her body after death.
St. Catherine of Palma, born Catherine Thomás Galés in the town of Valldemossa on the island of Mallorca, Spain, came from humble peasant origins. From her earliest years, she exhibited deep spiritual sensitivity and a natural inclination toward prayer and virtue. She was known locally for her quiet spirit, love of solitude, and devotion to the Virgin Mary.
Despite the simplicity of her upbringing, Catherine displayed remarkable wisdom and maturity in spiritual matters. At the age of 21, she entered the Canonesses of St. Augustine at the Convent of St. Mary Magdalene in Palma. She took the name "Sister Catherine of St. Vincent Ferrer" and committed herself fully to a life of contemplation, penance, and service.
During her life in the convent, Catherine was often immersed in deep prayer and had many mystical experiences, including visions and ecstasies. She reportedly conversed with angels and saints and experienced the presence of Christ in powerful ways. These experiences were accompanied by her extraordinary humility; she never sought recognition and considered herself unworthy of divine favor.
Her religious community revered her for her constant acts of charity, her obedience, and her tireless care for the sick and the poor. She endured various sufferings, both physical and spiritual, with patience and joy, uniting her pain with the Passion of Christ. Her holiness radiated throughout the island of Mallorca, and many people sought her prayers and counsel.
St. Catherine died on April 5, 1574, at the age of 40. After her death, her body was found to be incorrupt, a sign traditionally associated with great sanctity. Her tomb quickly became a place of pilgrimage, drawing many faithful who were inspired by her life of purity and prayer. Devotion to her continued to grow over the centuries, and in 1930, she was canonized by Pope Pius XI.