Catherine de' Ricci

Catherine-de-ricci

Catherine de' Ricci (1522–1590), born Alessandra Lucrezia Romola de' Ricci, was an Italian Dominican nun known for her mysticism, visions, and stigmata. She served as the prioress of the Convent of Pratovecchio, near Florence, and later of the Convent of San Vincenzo in Prato. Catherine is celebrated for her deep spiritual connection with the Passion of Jesus Christ, experiencing mystical unions that allowed her to live through the events of the Passion on a weekly basis. She was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 1746.

Early Life

Catherine de' Ricci was born in Florence, the daughter of a well-to-do family. From a young age, she showed a profound inclination towards prayer and contemplation. At the age of 13, she entered the Dominican convent in Prato, adopting the religious name Catherine, in honor of Catherine of Siena, another prominent Dominican saint and mystic.

Mystical Experiences

Catherine's spiritual life was marked by extraordinary mystical experiences. She is most renowned for her participation in the Passion of Christ, a phenomenon that began in 1542 and continued every week for 12 years. During these experiences, she would fall into a trance-like state from Thursday noon until Friday afternoon, reenacting the Passion with intense physical and emotional suffering. These episodes were accompanied by visible wounds resembling the stigmata of Christ on her body.

Influence and Legacy

Catherine de' Ricci maintained correspondence with many significant figures of her time, including Philip Neri and three popes. Her advice and insights were sought by many for spiritual guidance. Catherine's life and works were documented by her confessor, and her spiritual writings, including letters and counsels, have been preserved, offering valuable insights into her mystical experiences and theological reflections.

Her legacy extends beyond her mystical experiences. Catherine was instrumental in the reform of the Dominican convents in Tuscany, emphasizing strict adherence to the Rule of Saint Dominic and fostering a deep spiritual life among the nuns. She also showed a profound commitment to charity, caring for the poor and sick.

Canonization

Catherine de' Ricci was beatified by Pope Clement XII in 1732 and canonized by Pope Benedict XIV in 1746. Her feast day is celebrated on February 13th in the Catholic Church. She is venerated as a saint of mysticism and suffering, embodying the spiritual and physical imitation of Christ's Passion.

Veneration

Saint Catherine de' Ricci's relics are venerated at the Basilica of San Vincenzo in Prato, where she lived most of her religious life. The basilica has become a pilgrimage site for those devoted to her life and legacy.