Virgin, born Siena, Italy, 1347; died Rome, Italy, 1380. From her earliest childhood she began to see visions and practise extreme austerities; at 16 she joined the Dominican Tertiaries; and in 1366 she underwent the mystical experience known as the “spiritual espousals.” She then began her labor of caring for the sick, coming into close contact with those suffering from revolting diseases. She became the adviser of the rulers of Church and State, effected the pope’s return from Avignon, 1376, and brought about a reconciliation between Florence and the Holy See, 1378. During the Great Schism she favored Urban VI, and worked untiringly for the reform of the Church. Patroness of fire prevention. Emblems: a ring, cross, the stigmata, lily. Canonized, 1461. Feast, Roman Calendar, 30 April.