Doctor of the Church

St. Catharine was a Doctor of the Church. From the Latin for teacher, “Doctor” is a title given by a variety of Christian churches to individuals whom they recognize as having been of particular importance, especially for their contributions to theology or doctrine.

Throughout history, only about 35 poeple have been named a Doctor of the Church in the Catholic faith.

Though she had no formal education and lived only to age 33, St. Catharine wrote some 400 letters and a treatise called “a dialogue” that are considered among the most brilliant writings in the Catholic tradition.