Memorial Day: April 29When did Saint Catherine live: 1347 - 1380BIOGRAPHY: Saint Catherine, born in Siena (Italy), had 24 siblings. She took a vow of chastity at the age of seven, following several visions. At the age of 16, she joined the Dominican Tertiaries and was considered stigmatized, although the stigmata only became visible after her death. An outstanding achievement was her influence on the Pope's return from Avignon to Rome. Catherine wrote numerous letters to the Pope and other church dignitaries in which she called for reforms and described her visions. Today, these writings are a valuable theological legacy.PATRONAGE: St. Catherine is the patron saint of Europe, Italy, Rome; of nurses, the dying and washerwomen. She also protects against fire, plague and headaches.SYMBOLISM: The symbols of San Catherine are a book as a sign of her wisdom and lilies, which emphasize her innocence and purity.PATRON SAINT OF:Katharina, Katherina, Caterina, Catherine, Kathrin, Katherine, Katja, Karin, Karina, Kate, Káteri