Saint Katherine of Siena was born the daughter of humble Italian weavers in 1347. As a child, she loved to pray and even had visions of angels. Katherine made a vow to dedicate her life to Christ. At the age of 15, she entered the Third Order of Saint Dominic. Katherine remained in her father's shop, where she served people with joy and love every day. At home, Katherine prayed and enjoyed God's presence and his love.
After some time, Our Lord told Katherine to travel through Italy and to bring His people back to obedience to the Pope. Through her love and teaching, God brough many people close to His Son Jesus and the Catholic faith. Through Katherine's prayers and work, Pope Gregory XI returned from France to Rome, and she encouraged him to help bring peace to the people of Italy.
God gave Katherine many spiritual gifts. She worked miracles and guided many people through her words and deeds. Katherine died at the age of 33. She was cannonized in 1461 by Pope Pius II and on October 4, 1970, Pope Paul VI declared Saint Katherine of Siena to be a Doctor, or True Teacher, of the Church. St. Katherine of Siena's feast day is April 29 and she is the patroness of fire prevention, purity, bodily illness, nurses, and Italy.