A Great Cloud of A Great Cloud of Witnesses:Witnesses:

40 Saints from Catholic History40 Saints from Catholic History

Session 8:Session 8:

1313thth Century – Elizabeth of Hungary, Century – Elizabeth of Hungary, Hedwig, ClareHedwig, Clare

1414thth Century – Bridget, Catherine of Century – Bridget, Catherine of SienaSiena

1313thth Century Century

Economic & cultural revival (1100-1300)Economic & cultural revival (1100-1300) Aftermath of the CrusadesAftermath of the Crusades

Increased trading contacts with the East and Arab worldIncreased trading contacts with the East and Arab world Peace on the borders and within Europe: stability, Peace on the borders and within Europe: stability,

growthgrowth Growth of cities: result of increased commerceGrowth of cities: result of increased commerce

Kings of France and England emerge strongerKings of France and England emerge stronger Hereditary monarchies: divine right of kings (theocratic)Hereditary monarchies: divine right of kings (theocratic)

More stable than elective monarchy of Germany More stable than elective monarchy of Germany (emperor)(emperor)

Also Spain and Low Countries (Belgium, Holland) Also Spain and Low Countries (Belgium, Holland) strengthenstrengthen

EducationEducation Monastic centers of learning give way to urban centers: Monastic centers of learning give way to urban centers:

cathedral schoolscathedral schools Universities: Paris, Oxford, BolognaUniversities: Paris, Oxford, Bologna

Revival of Greek learning: Aristotle on natural scienceRevival of Greek learning: Aristotle on natural science Scholastic integration of Greek learning and Christian Scholastic integration of Greek learning and Christian

theologytheology Anselm, Abelard, Peter Lombard, Albert the Great, Anselm, Abelard, Peter Lombard, Albert the Great,

AquinasAquinas University theologians and canonists take lead in church University theologians and canonists take lead in church

lifelife Pope Alexander III (1159-1181): first great lawyer Pope Alexander III (1159-1181): first great lawyer

popepope Called 3Called 3rdrd Lateran Council in 1179: supported rise of Lateran Council in 1179: supported rise of

universities, 2/3’s majority required for papal electionsuniversities, 2/3’s majority required for papal elections

Revival of the citiesRevival of the cities Merchants and artisans: “middle class” (money economy)Merchants and artisans: “middle class” (money economy) Great Romanesque and Gothic cathedrals become urban Great Romanesque and Gothic cathedrals become urban

centerscenters Beginnings of modern vernacular languages (French, Beginnings of modern vernacular languages (French,

Italian, etc.)Italian, etc.) Dante writes Dante writes Divine ComedyDivine Comedy in Italian at end of 13 in Italian at end of 13thth

centurycentury Rise of mendicant (“begging”) orders: urban monasticismRise of mendicant (“begging”) orders: urban monasticism

Preaching and living the gospel in the world of the cityPreaching and living the gospel in the world of the city Franciscans, Dominicans, Augustinians, Canons Franciscans, Dominicans, Augustinians, Canons

RegularRegular

Key figures of the 13Key figures of the 13thth century century St. Francis of Assisi (1181-1226)St. Francis of Assisi (1181-1226)

Born in 1181: son of a wealthy merchant of Assisi and his French Born in 1181: son of a wealthy merchant of Assisi and his French wifewife

He enjoyed his middle class life, but soon became disenchantedHe enjoyed his middle class life, but soon became disenchanted Began to care for sick and lepers in Assisi and Rome; repair Began to care for sick and lepers in Assisi and Rome; repair

churcheschurches 1209: Francis devoted himself to poverty and preaching1209: Francis devoted himself to poverty and preaching

Soon he and seven followers chose not to be ordained as priestsSoon he and seven followers chose not to be ordained as priests Called themselves “friars minors”: lesser brothers (OFM)Called themselves “friars minors”: lesser brothers (OFM)

1210: Pope Innocent III approves new Franciscan order1210: Pope Innocent III approves new Franciscan order Rapid growth of this new urban religious orderRapid growth of this new urban religious order

Clare of Assisi was deeply moved by Francis’ life and preachingClare of Assisi was deeply moved by Francis’ life and preaching 1211: she founds the Poor Clares1211: she founds the Poor Clares

1223: he wrote final rule of Franciscan order1223: he wrote final rule of Franciscan order Died Oct. 3, 1226: canonized in 1228 by Pope Gregory IX (feast Died Oct. 3, 1226: canonized in 1228 by Pope Gregory IX (feast

Oct. 4)Oct. 4)

St. Dominic de Guzman (1170-1221)St. Dominic de Guzman (1170-1221)

1170: born to middle class parents in Castile (Spain)1170: born to middle class parents in Castile (Spain) Studied at developing university at Palencia: arts and theologyStudied at developing university at Palencia: arts and theology 1194: he was ordained and became a canon of cathedral of 1194: he was ordained and became a canon of cathedral of

OsmaOsma 1203-07: worked at converting the Cathars (Albigensians) in 1203-07: worked at converting the Cathars (Albigensians) in

southern Francesouthern France Heretical movement in reaction to worldliness of many church Heretical movement in reaction to worldliness of many church

leaders of the time: radical asceticismleaders of the time: radical asceticism He saw key to their conversion in excellent learning and He saw key to their conversion in excellent learning and

simplicity of lifesimplicity of life 1215: Dominic went to the 41215: Dominic went to the 4thth Lateran Council (probably met St. Lateran Council (probably met St.

Francis)Francis) Pope Innocent III approves Order of Preachers (OP): the Pope Innocent III approves Order of Preachers (OP): the

DominicansDominicans Emphasis on rigorous study, preaching, teachingEmphasis on rigorous study, preaching, teaching

Aug. 6, 1221: Dominic died in BolognaAug. 6, 1221: Dominic died in Bologna Canonized in 1234 by Pope Gregory IX: feast August 8Canonized in 1234 by Pope Gregory IX: feast August 8

Dominicans were key to developing universitiesDominicans were key to developing universities Became great promoters of the RosaryBecame great promoters of the Rosary

Pope Innocent III (1198-1216)Pope Innocent III (1198-1216) The greatest of the Medieval PopesThe greatest of the Medieval Popes

Born in 1160 of a wealthy Roman familyBorn in 1160 of a wealthy Roman family Studied theology at U. of Paris and law at U. of BolognaStudied theology at U. of Paris and law at U. of Bologna At age 30 he was made a cardinal by his uncle, Pope At age 30 he was made a cardinal by his uncle, Pope

Clement IIIClement III 1198: unanimously elected Pope at age 37 (Innocent III)1198: unanimously elected Pope at age 37 (Innocent III)

He was a man born to rule: excellent intellect, character, He was a man born to rule: excellent intellect, character, insightinsight

Reorganized the Papal States: true founderReorganized the Papal States: true founder Very aware of the prestige of his office: exalted viewVery aware of the prestige of his office: exalted view

First pope to use title “Vicar of Christ” in an official wayFirst pope to use title “Vicar of Christ” in an official way Innocent declared the Magna Carta void because it was Innocent declared the Magna Carta void because it was

extorted from the king by barons without papal consentextorted from the king by barons without papal consent His biggest mistake was the 4His biggest mistake was the 4thth Crusade (1204) Crusade (1204)

He was furious at the attack on ConstantinopleHe was furious at the attack on Constantinople This is the event that the Eastern Church cannot forgive or This is the event that the Eastern Church cannot forgive or

forgetforget

Sympathetic to concerns over church wealth/worldlinessSympathetic to concerns over church wealth/worldliness Supported work of Franciscans and DominicansSupported work of Franciscans and Dominicans Story of his dream of little man holding up crumbling Story of his dream of little man holding up crumbling

St. John Lateran: Francis of AssisiSt. John Lateran: Francis of Assisi 1215: called 41215: called 4thth Lateran Council (12 Lateran Council (12thth ecumenical, greatest ecumenical, greatest

Medieval council)Medieval council) Definition of eucharist in terms of “transubstantiation”Definition of eucharist in terms of “transubstantiation” Condemnation of various heresies: secular power to Condemnation of various heresies: secular power to

enforceenforce Required all adult Christians to confess sins to priest Required all adult Christians to confess sins to priest

once a yearonce a year He died in Perugia in 1216 (age 56)He died in Perugia in 1216 (age 56)

Elizabeth of Hungary, religious: 1207-1231 (Nov. 17)Elizabeth of Hungary, religious: 1207-1231 (Nov. 17) Born in 1207: daughter of Hungarian royaltyBorn in 1207: daughter of Hungarian royalty

At age 4 she was betrothed to Ludwig of Thuringia (11): brought up At age 4 she was betrothed to Ludwig of Thuringia (11): brought up with himwith him

They married in 1221 and he grew to love her deeply: three childrenThey married in 1221 and he grew to love her deeply: three children Elizabeth was very devout: prayer, simple life, charityElizabeth was very devout: prayer, simple life, charity

Her extraordinary generosity was criticized by some at courtHer extraordinary generosity was criticized by some at court Story of her placing a dying leper in the bed she shared with her Story of her placing a dying leper in the bed she shared with her

husbandhusband He objected, but God opened his eyes to see the crucified Christ in He objected, but God opened his eyes to see the crucified Christ in

himhim 1227: Ludwig died en route to Holy Land for a crusade1227: Ludwig died en route to Holy Land for a crusade

Elizabeth mourned deeply at their castle in Wartburg (Thuringia)Elizabeth mourned deeply at their castle in Wartburg (Thuringia) She went to Kitzingen and left her children in care of the nuns thereShe went to Kitzingen and left her children in care of the nuns there Her uncle, the bishop of Bamberg, tried to arrange a new marriage for Her uncle, the bishop of Bamberg, tried to arrange a new marriage for

herher But she refused: her and Ludwig had promised never to remarryBut she refused: her and Ludwig had promised never to remarry

1228: she received the habit of the Third Order of St. Francis1228: she received the habit of the Third Order of St. Francis Settled in a house near Marburg: built hospice for sick, poor, and elderlySettled in a house near Marburg: built hospice for sick, poor, and elderly Came under the influence of fanatical ascetic, Konrad of MarburgCame under the influence of fanatical ascetic, Konrad of Marburg

He was a former inquisitor: his severe discipline wore her downHe was a former inquisitor: his severe discipline wore her down A Magyar nobleman came to Marburg: urged her to return to HungaryA Magyar nobleman came to Marburg: urged her to return to Hungary

She refused: committed to her hospice workShe refused: committed to her hospice work She died on Nov. 17, 1231: at age 24She died on Nov. 17, 1231: at age 24

Her severe personal asceticism and constant work took its tollHer severe personal asceticism and constant work took its toll She was buried in her hospice chapel: soon miracles were reported thereShe was buried in her hospice chapel: soon miracles were reported there

1235: Elizabeth of Hungary was canonized by Pope Gregory IX1235: Elizabeth of Hungary was canonized by Pope Gregory IX 1236: her relics were transferred to new Church of St. Elizabeth in 1236: her relics were transferred to new Church of St. Elizabeth in

MarburgMarburg 1539: Lutheran prince had her relics removed: unknown to this day1539: Lutheran prince had her relics removed: unknown to this day In art she is portrayed as a queen or as a Franciscan tertiaryIn art she is portrayed as a queen or as a Franciscan tertiary

Hedwig, religious: 1174-1243 (Oct. 16)Hedwig, religious: 1174-1243 (Oct. 16) 1174: born in Bavaria, daughter of a count1174: born in Bavaria, daughter of a count

At age 12 she was married to the Duke of Silesia: HenryAt age 12 she was married to the Duke of Silesia: Henry They founded many religious houses: Cistercian nuns in area of They founded many religious houses: Cistercian nuns in area of

PolandPoland Also established hospitals and houses for lepersAlso established hospitals and houses for lepers

Their 7Their 7thth and last child was born in 1209 and last child was born in 1209 She then persuaded her husband to take vow of chastity with herShe then persuaded her husband to take vow of chastity with her They lived apart: she eventually settled next to Cistercian nunneryThey lived apart: she eventually settled next to Cistercian nunnery

There she shared the austere life of the nuns: much fastingThere she shared the austere life of the nuns: much fasting 1238: her husband died1238: her husband died

Spent rest of her life trying to keep peace between her warring sonsSpent rest of her life trying to keep peace between her warring sons She also dedicated much time to instructing the uneducated in their She also dedicated much time to instructing the uneducated in their

religionreligion She foretold her own death in 1243 (gift of prophecy)She foretold her own death in 1243 (gift of prophecy)

Canonized in 1267: feast extended to whole western Church on 1706Canonized in 1267: feast extended to whole western Church on 1706

Clare, virgin: 1193-1253 (Aug. 11)Clare, virgin: 1193-1253 (Aug. 11) Born in Assisi in 1193: had younger sisters Agnes and Born in Assisi in 1193: had younger sisters Agnes and

BeatriceBeatrice Time of great economic change and warfare: rising wealth of Italian Time of great economic change and warfare: rising wealth of Italian

citiescities She was from a wealthy family: her father proposed a husbandShe was from a wealthy family: her father proposed a husband

When she was 18 (1211) she heard Francis preachWhen she was 18 (1211) she heard Francis preach She renounced idea of marriage: wanted to live simple lifestyle like She renounced idea of marriage: wanted to live simple lifestyle like

himhim They developed a close spiritual friendship: met oftenThey developed a close spiritual friendship: met often

1212: she ran away from home and came to Francis & 1212: she ran away from home and came to Francis & companionscompanions

She gave up her possessions, cut her hair, and took on a penitential She gave up her possessions, cut her hair, and took on a penitential habithabit

Her family came to bring her home, but she refused: Christ is her Her family came to bring her home, but she refused: Christ is her husbandhusband

Francis established a nunnery near Assisi: placed Clare as Francis established a nunnery near Assisi: placed Clare as superiorsuperior

Her sister Agnes and others joined her: Francis drew up a rule for themHer sister Agnes and others joined her: Francis drew up a rule for them Monasteries of Poor Clare nuns were established in Italy, France, GermanyMonasteries of Poor Clare nuns were established in Italy, France, Germany

Extremely austere form of life for women religiousExtremely austere form of life for women religious They wore no stockings, shoes, or sandals: slept on ground, never ate meatThey wore no stockings, shoes, or sandals: slept on ground, never ate meat No speaking unless necessity or charity demanded itNo speaking unless necessity or charity demanded it Later on Clare would mellow in asceticismLater on Clare would mellow in asceticism Clare would be sick and bedridden often for final 27 years of her lifeClare would be sick and bedridden often for final 27 years of her life

She became the first woman to write a rule for religious womenShe became the first woman to write a rule for religious women During debates among Franciscans after their founder’s death, she tended During debates among Franciscans after their founder’s death, she tended

to side with the more rigorousto side with the more rigorous Pope Gregory IX offered to absolve her from vow of strict povertyPope Gregory IX offered to absolve her from vow of strict poverty

Clare: “I need absolution from my sins, not from having to follow Christ”Clare: “I need absolution from my sins, not from having to follow Christ” Later division between “Pure” Poor Clares and more moderate (“Urbanists”)Later division between “Pure” Poor Clares and more moderate (“Urbanists”)

Clare acted as abbess for almost 40 years: 1215 to her death Clare acted as abbess for almost 40 years: 1215 to her death in 1253in 1253

Always wanted to be a servant: washed sisters’ feet and tucked them Always wanted to be a servant: washed sisters’ feet and tucked them into bedinto bed

Like Francis she was contemplative and had a love for the natural Like Francis she was contemplative and had a love for the natural worldworld

Very cheerful demeanorVery cheerful demeanor Legends of her prayers warding off invading armies of HRE Frederick Legends of her prayers warding off invading armies of HRE Frederick

IIII She suffered much illness during last years of her lifeShe suffered much illness during last years of her life

Pope Innocent IV visited her and gave her absolutionPope Innocent IV visited her and gave her absolution 1253: she died at age 601253: she died at age 60

Pope Alexander IV canonized her in 1255Pope Alexander IV canonized her in 1255 By the year 1400 there were over 400 Poor Clare nunneries in EuropeBy the year 1400 there were over 400 Poor Clare nunneries in Europe

1414thth Century Century

The Papacy at the turn of the centuryThe Papacy at the turn of the century 1245: Emperor Frederick II was excommunicated and 1245: Emperor Frederick II was excommunicated and

deposed deposed France emerges as the new protector of the papacyFrance emerges as the new protector of the papacy

King St. Louis IX of France (1226-1270)King St. Louis IX of France (1226-1270) Growing sense in Europe of papacy as worldly and corruptGrowing sense in Europe of papacy as worldly and corrupt

Just like other political entitiesJust like other political entities Influence of Albigensians and radical FranciscansInfluence of Albigensians and radical Franciscans

Legend of Pope Joan emerges (the Lady Pope from 9Legend of Pope Joan emerges (the Lady Pope from 9thth century)century)

Promulgated by popular preachers and Franciscan Promulgated by popular preachers and Franciscan reformersreformers

Soon accepted as true: played on people’s worst fearsSoon accepted as true: played on people’s worst fears

Pope Nicholas IV died in 1292Pope Nicholas IV died in 1292 Conclave was deadlocked for Conclave was deadlocked for two yearstwo years

A holy hermit, Pietro Morrone, revealed divine A holy hermit, Pietro Morrone, revealed divine retribution if they failed to elect a pope soonretribution if they failed to elect a pope soon

Amazingly Morrone was elected pope: Celestine V (1294)Amazingly Morrone was elected pope: Celestine V (1294) He was an ascetic hermit who stood for poverty, He was an ascetic hermit who stood for poverty,

simplicitysimplicity Many thought he would be ideal to reform worldly Many thought he would be ideal to reform worldly

papacypapacy But he was illiterate, aged, and fell under the control of But he was illiterate, aged, and fell under the control of

king of Naplesking of Naples 6 months after election he wanted to resign6 months after election he wanted to resign Consulted a canon lawyer, Benedetto Caetani, who Consulted a canon lawyer, Benedetto Caetani, who

assured him he could abdicate: so he did in Dec. 1294assured him he could abdicate: so he did in Dec. 1294 Dante put Celestine in hell for this in his Dante put Celestine in hell for this in his Divine Divine

ComedyComedy

Caetani was elected as Pope Boniface VIII (1294-Caetani was elected as Pope Boniface VIII (1294-1303)1303)

One of the most famous and tumultuous pontificates in One of the most famous and tumultuous pontificates in historyhistory

He was a hard-headed lawyer, ambitious, autocratic, He was a hard-headed lawyer, ambitious, autocratic, unscrupulousunscrupulous

A cloud hung over his pontificateA cloud hung over his pontificate Did he advise Pope Celestine to resign so that he Did he advise Pope Celestine to resign so that he

could be pope?could be pope? Dante puts him in hell for treachery and avariceDante puts him in hell for treachery and avarice

He had enemies among the He had enemies among the FraticelliFraticelli: Franciscan radicals: Franciscan radicals They were big fans of Celestine VThey were big fans of Celestine V Began a propaganda campaign against BonifaceBegan a propaganda campaign against Boniface

Conflict with King Philip IV (“Fair”) of FranceConflict with King Philip IV (“Fair”) of France England and France were on verge of war: 100 Years War (1337-England and France were on verge of war: 100 Years War (1337-

1453)1453) Philip taxed the French clergy to help pay his armiesPhilip taxed the French clergy to help pay his armies

1302: Boniface released bull 1302: Boniface released bull Unam SanctumUnam Sanctum No names were mentioned, but “No names were mentioned, but “everyoneeveryone is subject to is subject to

Roman pontiff”Roman pontiff” Veiled threat of excommunication and deposition of PhilipVeiled threat of excommunication and deposition of Philip

Philip draws up long list of trumped-up charges against BonifacePhilip draws up long list of trumped-up charges against Boniface Insinuated Boniface imprisoned and killed Celestine VInsinuated Boniface imprisoned and killed Celestine V

Philip’s royal counselor, Guillaume de Nogoret, invades RomePhilip’s royal counselor, Guillaume de Nogoret, invades Rome With armed men they broke into papal palace, struck popeWith armed men they broke into papal palace, struck pope

The Romans came to Boniface’s rescue, drove out the intrudersThe Romans came to Boniface’s rescue, drove out the intruders Boniface died a few months later (1303)Boniface died a few months later (1303)

Moment of humiliation for papacy which had begun 13Moment of humiliation for papacy which had begun 13thth century century in such an impressive way with Innocent IIIin such an impressive way with Innocent III

Papal conclave (“with key”) was bitterly dividedPapal conclave (“with key”) was bitterly divided Anti-French (pro-Boniface) vs. pro-French (anti-Boniface): 11 monthsAnti-French (pro-Boniface) vs. pro-French (anti-Boniface): 11 months Finally, the archbishop of Bordeaux was elected: Pope Clement V Finally, the archbishop of Bordeaux was elected: Pope Clement V

(1305-14)(1305-14) The Avignon Papacy (1305-1377): six French popes in a rowThe Avignon Papacy (1305-1377): six French popes in a row

Clement V stayed in France due to chaotic politics in Italy, to work on Clement V stayed in France due to chaotic politics in Italy, to work on peace between France & England, and due to illness (cancer)peace between France & England, and due to illness (cancer)

1309: he settled in bishop’s palace at Avignon (border with Italy)1309: he settled in bishop’s palace at Avignon (border with Italy) Appointed 24 cardinals; all but 1 were FrenchAppointed 24 cardinals; all but 1 were French

John XXII (1316-34), Benedict XII (1334-42), Clement VI (1342-52), John XXII (1316-34), Benedict XII (1334-42), Clement VI (1342-52), Urban V (1362-70), Gregory XI (1371-78) Urban V (1362-70), Gregory XI (1371-78)

Lavish papal court at Avignon: papacy developed various taxes, Lavish papal court at Avignon: papacy developed various taxes, fees, dispensations, and fees, dispensations, and indulgencesindulgences to raise money to raise money

Led to later resentment of papacy as exactor of money: Luther in Led to later resentment of papacy as exactor of money: Luther in 15171517

1348: the Black Death (Bubonic Plague) swept through Europe1348: the Black Death (Bubonic Plague) swept through Europe Estimated 40% of Europe died (35 million people)Estimated 40% of Europe died (35 million people)

Gregory XI (1371-78) was the last French popeGregory XI (1371-78) was the last French pope Focused on returning the papacy to Rome: tomb of Focused on returning the papacy to Rome: tomb of

PeterPeter Catherine of Siena (Dominican): summer of 1376 in Catherine of Siena (Dominican): summer of 1376 in

AvignonAvignon She strongly urged him to return papacy to RomeShe strongly urged him to return papacy to Rome

1377: Gregory entered Rome with large force1377: Gregory entered Rome with large force Soon focused on the repression of heresySoon focused on the repression of heresy

Situation in Italy grew worse: hostility of Romans Situation in Italy grew worse: hostility of Romans over excessive forceover excessive force

Gregory died in 1378Gregory died in 1378

The Great Western Schism: 1378-1417The Great Western Schism: 1378-1417 At the conclave in Rome 12 of the 16 cardinals were FrenchAt the conclave in Rome 12 of the 16 cardinals were French

Roman people feared election of a Frenchman and return to Roman people feared election of a Frenchman and return to AvignonAvignon

Mob surrounded building: “Give us a Roman, or at least an Mob surrounded building: “Give us a Roman, or at least an Italian”Italian”

Cardinals elected an Italian, archbishop of Bari: Pope Cardinals elected an Italian, archbishop of Bari: Pope Urban VIUrban VI He soon became abusive and paranoid: rumors that he had gone He soon became abusive and paranoid: rumors that he had gone

madmad Cardinals withdrew to Anagni, claimed they had elected him under Cardinals withdrew to Anagni, claimed they had elected him under

coercion: thus the election was invalidcoercion: thus the election was invalid Elected a Frenchman as new pope: Elected a Frenchman as new pope: Clement VIIClement VII (1378-1394) (1378-1394)

Urban refused to step down: appointed 26 new Italian cardinalsUrban refused to step down: appointed 26 new Italian cardinals Clement and his supporters took up residence at AvignonClement and his supporters took up residence at Avignon Thus, two rival popes and two rival colleges of cardinalsThus, two rival popes and two rival colleges of cardinals

From 1409 there would be From 1409 there would be threethree rival popes! rival popes!

Bridget, religious: 1303-1373 (July 23)Bridget, religious: 1303-1373 (July 23) Birgitta was daughter of powerful Swedish provincial Birgitta was daughter of powerful Swedish provincial

governorgovernor As a child she had two visions: in one she was crowned by Our As a child she had two visions: in one she was crowned by Our

Lady, in another she saw Christ on the crossLady, in another she saw Christ on the cross The sufferings of Jesus became the focus of her spiritual lifeThe sufferings of Jesus became the focus of her spiritual life At age 14 she married Ulf Gudmarsson: they would have 8 At age 14 she married Ulf Gudmarsson: they would have 8

childrenchildren Bridget gained reputation for her care of the sickBridget gained reputation for her care of the sick

She insisted that her children accompany her on visitsShe insisted that her children accompany her on visits 1335: she became lady-in-waiting to Swedish queen1335: she became lady-in-waiting to Swedish queen

Tried to change the royal couple’s lifestyle: but they resistedTried to change the royal couple’s lifestyle: but they resisted 1340: her youngest son died1340: her youngest son died

She and her husband went on pilgrimage to Compostela, SpainShe and her husband went on pilgrimage to Compostela, Spain Shocked by the destruction in France caused by the 100 Years Shocked by the destruction in France caused by the 100 Years

WarWar Her husband died in Spain: she remained there for 3 years as a Her husband died in Spain: she remained there for 3 years as a

penitentpenitent

She returned to Sweden: had series of visionsShe returned to Sweden: had series of visions She began to wonder if they were delusions inspired by the devilShe began to wonder if they were delusions inspired by the devil Jesus told her she would be his bride and mouthpieceJesus told her she would be his bride and mouthpiece He also called her to help reform the monasteries of SwedenHe also called her to help reform the monasteries of Sweden

She founded the Order of the Most Holy Savior: the She founded the Order of the Most Holy Savior: the BridgettinesBridgettines

Every detail of the rule was revealed to her in visionsEvery detail of the rule was revealed to her in visions Double monastery for men and women: Bridget as abbessDouble monastery for men and women: Bridget as abbess Bridgettine monastery at Vadstena became center of learning in Bridgettine monastery at Vadstena became center of learning in

SwedenSweden Her visions involved her in the politics of the dayHer visions involved her in the politics of the day

She tried to persuade Avignon popes to return to RomeShe tried to persuade Avignon popes to return to Rome In vision Christ called Clement VI, “a destroyer of souls, worse than In vision Christ called Clement VI, “a destroyer of souls, worse than

Lucifer”Lucifer” One envoy to Avignon refused to read her letter, it was so harshOne envoy to Avignon refused to read her letter, it was so harsh

She was unsuccessful in persuading kings of England & France to end She was unsuccessful in persuading kings of England & France to end warwar

Supported religious crusade of Sweden against pagan neighborsSupported religious crusade of Sweden against pagan neighbors But soon condemned Swedish king as more interested in land than religionBut soon condemned Swedish king as more interested in land than religion She fell out of favor at court: many of her visions were apocalypticShe fell out of favor at court: many of her visions were apocalyptic

The Virgin Mary appeared often in theseThe Virgin Mary appeared often in these She reported her visions to various confessors: they wrote them in LatinShe reported her visions to various confessors: they wrote them in Latin

1350: in a vision she was directed to go to Rome1350: in a vision she was directed to go to Rome Jubilee indulgence, papal approval for Bridgettines, persuade pope to Jubilee indulgence, papal approval for Bridgettines, persuade pope to

returnreturn She found Rome in virtual ruins: divided by rival factionsShe found Rome in virtual ruins: divided by rival factions Series of angelic visions: wrote her famous Series of angelic visions: wrote her famous Sermo AngelicusSermo Angelicus

Focus on Mary: vision of her Focus on Mary: vision of her soulsoul rising to heaven (Assumption?) rising to heaven (Assumption?) She also visited various monasteries in Italy: challenged them to reformShe also visited various monasteries in Italy: challenged them to reform

1367: Pope Urban V returned to Rome, but this didn’t last long1367: Pope Urban V returned to Rome, but this didn’t last long Bridget had vision: warned of pope’s immanent deathBridget had vision: warned of pope’s immanent death She got him to approve her rule, but he returned to Avignon & died (1370)She got him to approve her rule, but he returned to Avignon & died (1370)

1371: Bridget wrote several times to Pope Gregory X1371: Bridget wrote several times to Pope Gregory X He ignored her pleas: but eventually listened to Catherine of Siena He ignored her pleas: but eventually listened to Catherine of Siena

(1377)(1377) Bridget lost popularity in Rome: strong prophecies against the peopleBridget lost popularity in Rome: strong prophecies against the people

A vision directed her to pilgrimage to the Holy LandA vision directed her to pilgrimage to the Holy Land She set out with daughter (Catherine), two sons, and followersShe set out with daughter (Catherine), two sons, and followers Son Charles died in Naples after scandalous affair with Queen JoannaSon Charles died in Naples after scandalous affair with Queen Joanna In Holy Land Bridget has series of visions of biblical eventsIn Holy Land Bridget has series of visions of biblical events

1373: she returned to Rome seriously ill1373: she returned to Rome seriously ill Died on July 23, 1373: remains were moved to abbey of Vadstena, Died on July 23, 1373: remains were moved to abbey of Vadstena,

SwedenSweden She was canonized in 1391: patroness of SwedenShe was canonized in 1391: patroness of Sweden

After her death the Bridgettines split into three branchesAfter her death the Bridgettines split into three branches Netherlands, Germany, EnglandNetherlands, Germany, England Spanish branch in Spain and MexicoSpanish branch in Spain and Mexico Sweden, Italy, India, and USA: focus on charitable workSweden, Italy, India, and USA: focus on charitable work

Catherine of Siena, virgin & doctor: 1347-Catherine of Siena, virgin & doctor: 1347-1380 (April 29)1380 (April 29)

Born Caterina di Benincasa in Siena, Italy in 1347Born Caterina di Benincasa in Siena, Italy in 1347 2424thth of 25 children of middle class family: her twin sister died at birth of 25 children of middle class family: her twin sister died at birth At age 6 she had a vision of Jesus: early commitment to life of virginity, At age 6 she had a vision of Jesus: early commitment to life of virginity,

prayer, solitudeprayer, solitude Her parents pushed her to marry: she refused, began practice of Her parents pushed her to marry: she refused, began practice of

fastingfasting Became a Dominican tertiary at age 16: most were older widowsBecame a Dominican tertiary at age 16: most were older widows

Lived at home in solitude and prayer: cared for poor and illLived at home in solitude and prayer: cared for poor and ill sought reform of clergy, studied muchsought reform of clergy, studied much At 21 she experienced what she called “mystical marriage” with ChristAt 21 she experienced what she called “mystical marriage” with Christ

1368: she dedicated herself to a more active life1368: she dedicated herself to a more active life Had a strong sense of society as a community held together by charityHad a strong sense of society as a community held together by charity Began ministry of preaching (unusual for a woman): people flocked to herBegan ministry of preaching (unusual for a woman): people flocked to her

Pope Urban V assigned three priest confessors to help herPope Urban V assigned three priest confessors to help her She experienced resistance from civil and church authoritiesShe experienced resistance from civil and church authorities

Constant theme of her message was God’s passionate love for usConstant theme of her message was God’s passionate love for us We must respond by loving God and all of God’s childrenWe must respond by loving God and all of God’s children She began to see that her love for God and the Church must lead to reformShe began to see that her love for God and the Church must lead to reform

1374: she visited Dominican friary in Florence and sought reform1374: she visited Dominican friary in Florence and sought reform Traveled in northern Italy trying to prevent formation of anti-papal leagueTraveled in northern Italy trying to prevent formation of anti-papal league

Preached value of a crusade against the Turks: divert violence outPreached value of a crusade against the Turks: divert violence out At Pisa she received the gift of the stigmata: identified with suffering ChristAt Pisa she received the gift of the stigmata: identified with suffering Christ Wrote to Pope Gregory XI to push reform of the clergyWrote to Pope Gregory XI to push reform of the clergy

““Many layfolk put them to shame by their good holy lives”Many layfolk put them to shame by their good holy lives” 1376: she visited Avignon as ambassador of Florence1376: she visited Avignon as ambassador of Florence

Pope Gregory XI had placed the city under interdictPope Gregory XI had placed the city under interdict Extensive correspondence with Gregory XI to return to RomeExtensive correspondence with Gregory XI to return to Rome

Combined tender familiarity (called him Combined tender familiarity (called him BabboBabbo) and honest challenge) and honest challenge ““Be a courageous man for me, not a coward!”Be a courageous man for me, not a coward!”

1377: Gregory XI returned the papacy to Rome1377: Gregory XI returned the papacy to Rome She returned to Siena and founded a conventShe returned to Siena and founded a convent She began work on her famous She began work on her famous DiualogueDiualogue: based on her : based on her

mystical experiencemystical experience 1378: outbreak of the Great Western Schism1378: outbreak of the Great Western Schism

Catherine was almost killed by anti-papal party in RomeCatherine was almost killed by anti-papal party in Rome During the Schism she rallied to the cause of pope Urban VI During the Schism she rallied to the cause of pope Urban VI

(who had been questionably deposed)(who had been questionably deposed) Offered her preaching, but also her prayers, sufferings, and Offered her preaching, but also her prayers, sufferings, and

penancepenance She worked to have a council convoked to heal the SchismShe worked to have a council convoked to heal the Schism

She died in 1380 of a stroke at age 33She died in 1380 of a stroke at age 33 Result of her severe penances and taking the sins of the Church Result of her severe penances and taking the sins of the Church

upon herupon her