Catherine of Siena

by Thomas McDermott

Although Catherine of Siena was proclaimed a Doctor of the Church in 1970, relatively little attention has been given to her mystical thought, particularly in the English-speaking world. The Dialogue , the famous compendium of her mature thought, is difficult to understand owing to its interruptions, repetitions, overlapping arguments, imagery and undefined terms. Thomas McDermott breaks new ground in his systematic presentation of Catherine's teachings. Drawing on the Dialogue and also on Catherine's 381 letters and prayers, he explains clearly her principal teachings in relation to spiritual development, and identifies Catherine's possible sources as well as her areas of originality. By examining Catherine's life and mystical experiences, McDermott shows how she herself grew spiritually and how her growth corresponds to her later teaching on the "three stairs" on the "bridge of Christ crucified." Finally, the author puts forward what he regards as the fundamental message of Catherine's life and teaching. Students of mysticism and spirituality will find this book a trustworthy guide through the incredibly rich mysticism of one of the 14th century's most amazing women.

Genres: Theology, Nonfiction, Religion

362 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her coverage of spirtual development is important for all people who strive on the Way of Perfection. This was more of a summary of her different works. I am now looking forward to reading her works more in depth.

[Richard Grebenc · Rating 5 out of 5]

As one who has dipped his toe into Catherine's "Dialogues," and finding them tough going (as have many others), I was pleased to learn of this book. A scholarly (87 pages of End Notes [mainly of interest to scholars but can be read by all with benefit] and 16 pages of Works Cited in several languages) but accessible work, it attempts to organize and explain this Doctor of the Church's writing in a cohesive way (as many have tried before), discerning a schema to her spirituality. Surprisingly, despite the scholarly bent, it provides much spiritual food for the reader. It almost begs a follow-up that follows the author's approach but would focus strictly on her teachings to produce a spiritual handbook for repeated reading and reference.

Absolutely essential for devotees of Catherine and all Dominicans and a first book to read for those wishing to dive into her writings.

[Aaron Crofut · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some books you plan to read for years, and others you grab off a used bookstore shelf on a lark. This one falls into that second category and I was pleasantly surprised by it. I only read the first section which provided a decent overview of her life and times; the other two sections analyze her works and quote them at length. She was a fascinating woman even in her own time and I look forward to reading her works (before reading the analyses of them contained in this particular book). Mystics are a touchy subject. Any belief in the supernatural is going to produce them, but that same belief means there are good and bad forces "on the other side" of things as it were (to say nothing of charlatans). But as a wise man once said, by their fruits you shall know them, and the fruits of St. Catherine were incredible.

Sancta Catharina, ora pro nobis.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible scholarly look at Catherine's life and teachings - read this one slowly and savor it. Much to linger over and much to ponder, especially for those who love her already.

40% of the book is references cited.

[Lynn Pownall]

This book is a great introduction into the life and teaching of St. Catherine of Sienna. I found it very fruitful reading for my own spiritual life.