Daily Saint

St. Catherine de’ Ricci was a Dominican mystic in the 16th century whose life of prayer, charity, and extraordinary union with Christ made her a revered figure of the Renaissance Church.

Born Alessandra Lucrezia Romola de’ Ricci in Florence, she was raised by relatives after losing her mother at an early age. From childhood, she showed remarkable piety, a contemplative spirit, and a tender devotion to the Passion of Christ.

At age 13, she entered the Dominican convent of San Vincenzo in Prato, taking the religious name Catherine. Although she endured early misunderstandings from some sisters due to her mystical gifts, she persevered in humility and obedience. Over time, she became known for her deep prayer life and for the many graces she received, including visions, ecstasies, and the bearing of the stigmata.

One of the most striking features of Catherine’s spiritual life was the weekly ecstasy she experienced on Thursdays and Fridays for several years, during which she visibly contemplated Christ’s Passion. Witnesses recounted that her body reflected the agony of Christ’s suffering, receiving the marks of the stigmata during ecstasy.

Despite these mystical consolations, Catherine excelled in practical charity and wise leadership. She served as novice leader and later as prioress for decades, guiding her community with gentleness and sound judgment. She corresponded with numerous Church leaders of her time, including St. Philip Neri, to whom she is said to have appeared miraculously in Rome while remaining physically in her convent in Tuscany.

Catherine died on February 2, 1590, beloved by her sisters and revered for her holiness. She was canonized in 1746.