SCS8 – Perfect Love and Perfect Union – St. Catherine of Siena with Fr. Thomas McDermott O.P. – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Perfect Love and Perfect Union – St. Catherine of Siena with Fr. Thomas McDermott O.P.

Fr. Thomas McDermott - Prayer and the Dominican Tradition 1

Fr. Thomas McDermott and Kris McGregor explore St. Catherine’s view on the stages of spiritual development, which culminate in perfect union with God. They discuss how her teaching departs from traditional paradigms, emphasizing the importance of spiritual growth and love of God and neighbor; especially St. Catherine’s imagery of the Christ Bridge, where the soul experiences intimacy and peace with God.

Fr. McDermott explains Catherine’s emphasis on suffering and the importance of God’s honor and the salvation of souls. They also discuss the concept of perfect union with God, acknowledging that true union can only be fully realized in heaven.

Throughout the discussion, they tell listeners of St. Catherine’s humility and her warning against intellectual pride, emphasizing the transformative power of love and correct knowledge of God. Fr. McDermott highlights Catherine’s belief in the transformative nature of grace and the importance of virtues in becoming Christ-like. He expresses optimism about a renewed interest in Catherine’s teachings, facilitated by recent translations of her works.


Fr. Thomas McDermott - Prayer and the Dominican Tradition 2

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

  1. Stages of Spiritual Development: How does St. Catherine’s understanding of the stages of spiritual development differ from traditional paradigms?
  2. The Christ Bridge: What significance does Catherine attribute to the imagery of the Christ Bridge, particularly in terms of spiritual intimacy and peace?
  3. Embracing Suffering: Reflect on the concept of embracing suffering as discussed by Fr. McDermott. How does this align with Catherine’s teachings, and how might it challenge contemporary attitudes towards suffering?
  4. Perfect Union with God: Fr. McDermott explains the idea of perfect union with God as presented by Catherine. How does this understanding relate to our earthly experiences and our ultimate destiny in heaven?
  5. Humility and Intellectual Pursuit: Consider Catherine’s emphasis on humility and her warning against intellectual pride. How can we cultivate humility in our pursuit of knowledge and spiritual growth?
  6. Transformative Power of Love: Reflect on the notion that love transforms us into what we love. How does this principle manifest in our relationship with God and others?
  7. Relevance to the Church: Fr. McDermott highlights Catherine’s love for the Church. How can her teachings inspire a deeper appreciation for the Church’s role in our spiritual journey?
  8. Renewed Interest in Catherine’s Teachings: In light of recent translations of Catherine’s works, how might her teachings find new relevance and resonance in contemporary Catholic and Protestant communities?

St.-Catherine-of-Siena-book-200x300
This series is based on ‘Catherine of Siena’ by Fr. Thomas McDermott

For the entire Discerning Hearts series “The Life and Teachings of St. Catherine of Siena” visit here

Fr. Thomas McDermott, OP is Regent of Studies for the Dominican Province of St. Albert the Great and is the author of “Catherine of Siena: Spiritual Development in Her Life and Teaching” (Paulist, 2008) and “Filled with all the Fullness of God: An Introduction to Catholic Spirituality”. He obtained a doctorate in spiritual theology from the Angelicum and taught for several years at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis. He crrently serves as pastor at St. Vincent Ferrer, in Chicago, IL.

SCS7 – “Stages” in the Spiritual Life – St. Catherine of Siena with Fr. Thomas McDermott O.P. – Discerning Hearts Podcast

 “Stages” in the Spiritual Life – St. Catherine of Siena with Fr. Thomas McDermott O.P.

Fr. Thomas McDermott - Prayer and the Dominican Tradition 1

Fr. Thomas McDermott and Kris McGregor explore the stages of spiritual development as an upward spiral rather than linear progression. Fr. McDermott tells us of St. Catherine’s focus on love for God and neighbor, cautioning against becoming attached to spiritual consolations.

Perseverance through dark nights of the soul highlights the importance of pure love for God. The significance of tears in spiritual experience and the imagery of the heart of Christ are described as as a window to divine love. St. Catherine sees friendship as essential for spiritual growth, emphasizing the interconnectedness of believers.

Fr. McDermott explains St. Catherine’s interpretation of the open side of Christ’s heart as a symbol of divine love and the importance of participation in that love. He encourages listeners not to feel discouraged if they don’t fully understand St. Catherine’s teachings, but to seek spiritual guidance and persevere in their journey. They also warn against spiritual gluttony and pride, advocating for humility and seeking spiritual direction within the Church.


Fr. Thomas McDermott - Prayer and the Dominican Tradition 2

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

  1. Understanding Spiritual Development: How does Fr. McDermott describe the stages of spiritual development as an upward spiral rather than a linear progression?
  2. Love for God and Neighbor: What caution does Fr. McDermott give regarding becoming attached to spiritual consolations, and what does he emphasize as the true focus of spiritual growth?
  3. Perseverance through Dark Nights: What is the significance of persevering through dark nights of the soul in Catherine’s teaching, and what does it reveal about the nature of love for God?
  4. Importance of Tears: How does Catherine’s teaching on tears reflect different stages of spiritual experience, and what is their significance in spiritual growth?
  5. Imagery of the Heart of Christ: What does the imagery of the heart of Christ represent, and how does it serve as a window to divine love according to Fr. McDermott?
  6. Emphasis on Friendship: Why does Catherine emphasize the importance of friendship in spiritual growth, and how does it relate to our relationship with God?
  7. Participation in Divine Love: How does Catherine’s teaching emphasize the concept of participation in divine love, and what significance does this hold for believers?
  8. Seeking Spiritual Guidance: What advice does Fr. McDermott give to listeners who may feel discouraged or confused by Catherine’s teachings, and what is the importance of spiritual direction within the Church?

St.-Catherine-of-Siena-book-200x300
This series is based on ‘Catherine of Siena’ by Fr. Thomas McDermott

For the entire Discerning Hearts series “The Life and Teachings of St. Catherine of Siena” visit here

Fr. Thomas McDermott, OP is Regent of Studies for the Dominican Province of St. Albert the Great and is the author of “Catherine of Siena: Spiritual Development in Her Life and Teaching” (Paulist, 2008) and “Filled with all the Fullness of God: An Introduction to Catholic Spirituality”. He obtained a doctorate in spiritual theology from the Angelicum and taught for several years at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis. He crrently serves as pastor at St. Vincent Ferrer, in Chicago, IL.

SCS6 – “The Precious Blood”, “The Christ Bridge” and Other Topics – St. Catherine of Siena with Fr. Thomas McDermott O.P. – Discerning Hearts Podcast

 “The Precious Blood”, “The Christ Bridge” and Other Topics – St. Catherine of Siena with Fr. Thomas McDermott O.P.

Fr. Thomas McDermott - Prayer and the Dominican Tradition 1

Fr. Thomas McDermott and Kris McGregor discuss St. Catherine of Siena’s teachings on the significance of the blood of Christ in her spiritual development. St. Catherine’s fixation on the blood of Christ stems from her belief that it reveals the depth of God’s love for humanity. She sees the blood not only as grace but also as a symbol of a new energy field that believers are invited to immerse themselves in, allowing it to transform them.

They discuss St. Catherine’s central metaphor of the “Christ Bridge,” which represents the journey of spiritual growth. The bridge spans from heaven to earth, with various stages symbolizing different levels of spiritual advancement. She emphasizes the importance of virtues as stepping stones on this bridge and highlights the necessity of human relationships in spiritual development.


Fr. Thomas McDermott - Prayer and the Dominican Tradition 2

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

  1. Reflection on the Blood of Christ: How does St. Catherine of Siena’s focus on Christ’s blood deepen your understanding of God’s love and its transformative power in your life?
  2. The Christ Bridge Metaphor: Reflect on your spiritual journey in light of Catherine’s metaphor of the “Christ Bridge.” How do you perceive your progress on this bridge, and what virtues do you see as stepping stones for further growth?
  3. Virtues and Human Relationships: Consider the role of virtues and human relationships in your spiritual development. How can you cultivate virtues and foster meaningful connections with others to deepen your relationship with God?
  4. Exploring Saints’ Lives: How might delving into the lives of saints, particularly St. Catherine of Siena, enrich your spiritual journey and provide guidance for navigating challenges and seeking deeper prayer life?
  5. Relevance of Catherine’s Teachings: In what ways do you find St. Catherine’s teachings relevant for your life as a modern believer? How can you apply her insights to cultivate a more vibrant and transformative spiritual life?

St.-Catherine-of-Siena-book-200x300
This series is based on ‘Catherine of Siena’ by Fr. Thomas McDermott

For the entire Discerning Hearts series “The Life and Teachings of St. Catherine of Siena” visit here

Fr. Thomas McDermott, OP is Regent of Studies for the Dominican Province of St. Albert the Great and is the author of “Catherine of Siena: Spiritual Development in Her Life and Teaching” (Paulist, 2008) and “Filled with all the Fullness of God: An Introduction to Catholic Spirituality”. He obtained a doctorate in spiritual theology from the Angelicum and taught for several years at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis. He crrently serves as pastor at St. Vincent Ferrer, in Chicago, IL.

SCS5 – The Supreme Truth and other topics – St. Catherine of Siena with Fr. Thomas McDermott O.P. – Discerning Hearts Podcast

The Supreme Truth and other topics – St. Catherine of Siena with Fr. Thomas McDermott O.P.

Fr. Thomas McDermott - Prayer and the Dominican Tradition 1

In this enlightening episode, Father Thomas McDermott O.P. delves into St. Catherine of Siena’s spiritual legacy, exploring her status as a Doctor of the Church and the profound depth of her teachings as presented in her principal work, The Dialogue, and her extensive letters. Father McDermott elucidates St. Catherine’s mystical experiences, particularly during her communion, where she received divine locutions that formed the basis of her writings.

The episode highlights the core themes of St. Catherine’s teachings, including the importance of truth and self-knowledge, the practical application of theology in everyday Christian life, and virtues like humility, obedience, and patience. A significant focus is also placed on the concept of divinization, a key aspect of her theology, which illustrates how humans are invited to share in God’s divinity through grace. This discussion sheds light on St. Catherine’s theological contributions. It underscores her timeless impact on Christian spirituality and ecclesiastical teachings, offering valuable insights into living a virtuous Christian life rooted in contemplative practice and practical action.


Fr. Thomas McDermott - Prayer and the Dominican Tradition 2

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

  1. Self-Knowledge and Truth: St. Catherine emphasized the importance of self-knowledge and understanding the truth about God and ourselves. Reflect on your own journey of self-knowledge. How has your understanding of yourself influenced your relationship with God?
  2. Divine Communication: Father McDermott describes St. Catherine’s mystical experiences and her communion with God. How do you perceive divine communication in your own life? In what ways do you feel God communicates with you, and how do you respond?
  3. Practical Virtues: St. Catherine’s teachings highlight virtues like humility, obedience, and patience. Choose one of these virtues and reflect on its role in your life. Can you identify a recent situation where you successfully or unsuccessfully embodied this virtue?
  4. Role of Mystical Experiences: According to St. Catherine, mystical experiences should lead to an increase in virtuous living. Reflect on any personal experiences that you consider mystical or profoundly spiritual. How have these experiences impacted your daily actions and spiritual growth?
  5. Concept of Divinization: The idea of sharing in God’s divinity is a profound aspect of St. Catherine’s theology. Reflect on what divinization means to you. How does the concept that we are made to share in the divine life influence your understanding of your purpose and actions?
  6. The Impact of Sin and Grace: Discuss how St. Catherine views the effects of original sin and grace on human nature. How does recognizing your own sinfulness and God’s grace change the way you approach life and relationships?
  7. Teachings Applied to Contemporary Issues: St. Catherine was practical and addressed the needs of her time. How can her teachings be applied to contemporary issues in the Church or society today? Are there specific teachings that resonate with you in addressing current challenges?
  8. Contemplative Prayer: St. Catherine strongly advocated contemplative prayer as a means to truth and a deeper relationship with God. How does contemplative prayer fit into your spiritual practice? What steps can you take to deepen or incorporate contemplative prayer into your routine?

St.-Catherine-of-Siena-book-200x300
This series is based on ‘Catherine of Siena’ by Fr. Thomas McDermott

For the entire Discerning Hearts series “The Life and Teachings of St. Catherine of Siena” visit here

Fr. Thomas McDermott, OP is Regent of Studies for the Dominican Province of St. Albert the Great and is the author of “Catherine of Siena: Spiritual Development in Her Life and Teaching” (Paulist, 2008) and “Filled with all the Fullness of God: An Introduction to Catholic Spirituality”. He obtained a doctorate in spiritual theology from the Angelicum and taught for several years at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis. He crrently serves as pastor at St. Vincent Ferrer, in Chicago, IL.

SCS4 – The Avignon and Rome Years – St. Catherine of Siena with Fr. Thomas McDermott O.P. – Discerning Hearts Podcast

The Avignon and Rome Years – St. Catherine of Siena with Fr. Thomas McDermott O.P.

Fr. Thomas McDermott - Prayer and the Dominican Tradition 1

Fr. Thomas McDermott and Kris McGregor discuss the life of St. Catherine of Siena and her role in persuading the Pope to return to Rome from Avignon after a 70-year absence. They shine a light on St. Catherine’s remarkable transformation from a seemingly shy recluse to a prominent figure advising the Pope. Her directness and authority, rooted in her divine revelations and visions, were instrumental in influencing the Pope’s decision.

Fr. McDermott also shares his personal connection to St. Catherine, describing how studying her teachings profoundly impacted his spiritual journey, leading to a deep admiration and engagement with her life.


Fr. Thomas McDermott - Prayer and the Dominican Tradition 2

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

  1. St. Catherine’s Influence: How does St. Catherine’s transformation from a shy recluse to a prominent advisor to the Pope reflect her deep spiritual journey and divine calling?
  2. Access to the Papal Court: What do you think allowed St. Catherine, a woman, to have such unprecedented access to the papal court during her time, and what significance does this hold for understanding the medieval Church’s attitude towards women?
  3. St. Catherine’s Authority: In what ways did St. Catherine demonstrate her prophetic voice and authority, particularly in her directness and fearlessness in confronting the Pope and addressing the issues within the Church?
  4. St. Catherine’s Personal Sacrifice: Reflect on St. Catherine’s physical and spiritual suffering, such as her struggles with food and her tireless devotion to prayer for the Church. How does her perseverance in the face of suffering inspire you in your own spiritual journey?
  5. St. Catherine’s Legacy: Discuss the enduring impact of St. Catherine’s life and teachings on the Catholic Church. How can her example of love for the Church coupled with constructive criticism guide us in our efforts for spiritual renewal and reform today?

St.-Catherine-of-Siena-book-200x300
This series is based on ‘Catherine of Siena’ by Fr. Thomas McDermott

For the entire Discerning Hearts series “The Life and Teachings of St. Catherine of Siena” visit here

Fr. Thomas McDermott, OP is Regent of Studies for the Dominican Province of St. Albert the Great and is the author of “Catherine of Siena: Spiritual Development in Her Life and Teaching” (Paulist, 2008) and “Filled with all the Fullness of God: An Introduction to Catholic Spirituality”. He obtained a doctorate in spiritual theology from the Angelicum and taught for several years at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis. He crrently serves as pastor at St. Vincent Ferrer, in Chicago, IL.

SCS3 – The Mystical Experiences – St. Catherine of Siena with Fr. Thomas McDermott O.P. – Discerning Hearts Podcast

The Mystical Experiences – St. Catherine of Siena with Fr. Thomas McDermott O.P.

Fr. Thomas McDermott - Prayer and the Dominican Tradition 1

Fr. Thomas McDermott and Kris McGregor discuss the life of St. Catherine of Siena, focusing on her mystical experiences and their significance: he mystical spousals with Christ, her understanding of virtues and their role in Christian life, and her practical approach to serving others, exemplified by her care for the sick and difficult; her willingness to endure suffering for the salvation of others, culminating in her experience of the stigmata.


Fr. Thomas McDermott - Prayer and the Dominican Tradition 2

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

  1. Mystical Spousals and Divine Union: How does St. Catherine of Sienna’s experience of mystical spousals with Christ reflect her deep union with God? What insights can we gain from her understanding of this mystical experience?
  2. Virtues and Christian Life: In what ways did St. Catherine emphasize the importance of virtues in Christian life, particularly in contrast to merely following the commandments? How can we apply her emphasis on virtues in our own spiritual journey?
  3. Practical Love and Service: Reflect on St. Catherine’s practical approach to serving others, such as her care for the sick and difficult, like Andrea. How does her example challenge us to overcome our own limitations and extend love and service to those around us?
  4. Union with God and Suffering: Discuss St. Catherine’s deep union with God and her willingness to endure suffering for the salvation of others, as seen in her experience of the stigmata. How does her example inspire us to embrace suffering as a means of drawing closer to Christ and participating in His redemptive work?
  5. Gospel-Centered Reflection: Consider how St. Catherine’s teachings and experiences remain closely aligned with the Gospel. How can we strive to center our own spiritual reflections and practices on the teachings of Christ as she did?

St.-Catherine-of-Siena-book-200x300
This series is based on ‘Catherine of Siena’ by Fr. Thomas McDermott

For the entire Discerning Hearts series “The Life and Teachings of St. Catherine of Siena” visit here

Fr. Thomas McDermott, OP is Regent of Studies for the Dominican Province of St. Albert the Great and is the author of “Catherine of Siena: Spiritual Development in Her Life and Teaching” (Paulist, 2008) and “Filled with all the Fullness of God: An Introduction to Catholic Spirituality”. He obtained a doctorate in spiritual theology from the Angelicum and taught for several years at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis. He crrently serves as pastor at St. Vincent Ferrer, in Chicago, IL.

SCS2 – The Fundamental Maxim and The Dark Night of Self-Knowldege – St. Catherine of Siena with Fr. Thomas McDermott O.P. – Discerning Hearts Podcast

The Fundamental Maxim and The Dark Night of Self-Knowldege – St. Catherine of Siena with Fr. Thomas McDermott O.P.
Fr. Thomas McDermott - Prayer and the Dominican Tradition 1

Fr. Thomas McDermott and Kris McGregor discuss the life of St. Catherine of Sienna, focusing on pivotal moments in her spiritual development. They explore St. Catherine’s experiences in prayer, her periods of solitude, and her relationship with her family. St. Catherine’s choice to join the Dominican third order is highlighted, as well as her struggle with temptation and the “dark night of the soul.” Fr. McDermott dispels misconceptions about her attitude towards the papacy by way of her deep love for God and the Church.

St. Catherine’s teachings, particularly her fundamental maxim on self-knowledge and humility tell listeners of the relevance of her spiritual journey for contemporary believers and the importance of maintaining a personal “cell” of self-knowledge and recollection amidst the chaos of the world.


Fr. Thomas McDermott - Prayer and the Dominican Tradition 2

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

  1. Exploring Solitude and Isolation: How can we distinguish between solitude, as experienced by St. Catherine of Sienna, and isolation? Reflect on the significance of solitude in nurturing one’s spiritual life.
  2. Family Dynamics and Vocation: Consider St. Catherine’s family’s reaction to her desire for solitude and her chosen vocation. How can we reconcile familial concerns with personal vocations and aspirations?
  3. Understanding Third Orders: Reflect on the concept of third orders in religious life, such as the Dominican third order to which St. Catherine belonged. How might third orders provide avenues for laypeople to deepen their spiritual lives while living in the world?
  4. Discerning Religious Experiences: St. Catherine’s experiences of visions and dreams played a significant role in her spiritual journey. How can individuals discern whether their religious experiences are genuine messages from God or products of their own psyche?
  5. The Dark Night of the Soul: Reflect on St. Catherine’s “dark night” experience and her perseverance through spiritual struggles. How can we maintain faith and love for God during times of spiritual dryness or perceived abandonment?
  6. The Cell of Self-Knowledge: Explore the concept of the “cell of self-knowledge” as discussed by St. Catherine. How might we cultivate inner recollection and self-awareness amidst the distractions of daily life?
  7. Love for God and Others: St. Catherine emphasized the connection between one’s love for God and the quality of relationships with others. Reflect on how our interactions with others reflect our love for God, and vice versa.
  8. Misconceptions and Authentic Spirituality: Consider misconceptions about St. Catherine’s relationship with the Church, particularly regarding her interactions with the papacy. How can we discern authentic spirituality within the context of the Church’s teachings and authority?

St.-Catherine-of-Siena-book-200x300
This series is based on ‘Catherine of Siena’ by Fr. Thomas McDermott

For the entire Discerning Hearts series “The Life and Teachings of St. Catherine of Siena” visit here

Fr. Thomas McDermott, OP is Regent of Studies for the Dominican Province of St. Albert the Great and is the author of “Catherine of Siena: Spiritual Development in Her Life and Teaching” (Paulist, 2008) and “Filled with all the Fullness of God: An Introduction to Catholic Spirituality”. He obtained a doctorate in spiritual theology from the Angelicum and taught for several years at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis. He crrently serves as pastor at St. Vincent Ferrer, in Chicago, IL.

SCS1 – Introduction & Childhood – St. Catherine of Siena with Fr. Thomas McDermott O.P. – Discerning Hearts Podcast

Introduction & Childhood – St. Catherine of Siena with Fr. Thomas McDermott O.P.
Fr. Thomas McDermott - Prayer and the Dominican Tradition 1

In this introductory episode, Fr. Thomas McDermott and Kris McGregor discuss the life and teachings of St. Catherine of Siena. Fr. McDermott shares his personal journey of discovering and studying St. Catherine, highlighting her significant impact despite initial challenges in understanding her work, particularly her major work, “The Dialogue” and how St. Catherine’s reputation spread through Raymond of Capua’s biography of her, despite some differences due to historical context.

Delving into St. Catherine’s mystical encounters, particularly a vision of Christ at a young age, which ignited her lifelong thirst for a personal relationship with Jesus; Fr. McDermott reminds us of the importance of desire in spirituality and reflects on how families and communities can foster an environment for spiritual growth, using the example of St. Catherine’s influence on others and her voluntary community of followers known as the “Caterinati“, providing insights into St. Catherine’s life, spirituality, and enduring impact.


Fr. Thomas McDermott - Prayer and the Dominican Tradition 2

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

  1. Discovering St. Catherine: How does Fr. McDermott describe his initial encounter with St. Catherine’s writings? What were the challenges he faced, and how did he eventually come to appreciate her teachings?
  2. Influence of Raymond of Capua: Discuss the significance of Raymond of Capua’s biography of St. Catherine. How did this biography contribute to her reputation, despite potential differences due to historical context?
  3. Mystical Encounters: Reflect on St. Catherine’s mystical encounters, particularly her vision of Christ as a young child. How did this experience shape her spiritual journey and ignite her thirst for a deeper relationship with Jesus?
  4. The Importance of Desire: Fr. McDermott emphasizes the theme of desire in spirituality. How does he explain the concept of desire in the context of St. Catherine’s life and teachings? How can modern Catholics cultivate a similar desire for God?
  5. Influence on Others: Explore St. Catherine’s influence on others, particularly her voluntary community of followers known as the “Caterinati.” How did she impact the lives of those around her, and what lessons can Catholics today draw from her example of spiritual leadership?
  6. Fostering Spiritual Growth: Reflect on the role of families and communities in fostering environments conducive to spiritual growth, as discussed in the episode. How can Catholic families and communities today create spaces where individuals can deepen their relationship with God?

St.-Catherine-of-Siena-book-200x300
This series is based on ‘Catherine of Siena’ by Fr. Thomas McDermott

For the entire Discerning Hearts series “The Life and Teachings of St. Catherine of Siena” visit here

Fr. Thomas McDermott, OP is Regent of Studies for the Dominican Province of St. Albert the Great and is the author of “Catherine of Siena: Spiritual Development in Her Life and Teaching” (Paulist, 2008) and “Filled with all the Fullness of God: An Introduction to Catholic Spirituality”. He obtained a doctorate in spiritual theology from the Angelicum and taught for several years at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis. He crrently serves as pastor at St. Vincent Ferrer, in Chicago, IL.

SCS2 – The Fundamental Maxim and The Dark Night of Self-Knowldege – St. Catherine of Siena with Fr. Thomas McDermott O.P. – Discerning Hearts Podcast

The Fundamental Maxim and The Dark Night of Self-Knowldege – St. Catherine of Siena with Fr. Thomas McDermott O.P.
Fr. Thomas McDermott - Prayer and the Dominican Tradition 1

Fr. Thomas McDermott and Kris McGregor discuss the life of St. Catherine of Sienna, focusing on pivotal moments in her spiritual development. They explore St. Catherine’s experiences in prayer, her periods of solitude, and her relationship with her family. St. Catherine’s choice to join the Dominican third order is highlighted, as well as her struggle with temptation and the “dark night of the soul.” Fr. McDermott dispels misconceptions about her attitude towards the papacy by way of her deep love for God and the Church.

St. Catherine’s teachings, particularly her fundamental maxim on self-knowledge and humility tell listeners of the relevance of her spiritual journey for contemporary believers and the importance of maintaining a personal “cell” of self-knowledge and recollection amidst the chaos of the world.


Fr. Thomas McDermott - Prayer and the Dominican Tradition 2

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

  1. Exploring Solitude and Isolation: How can we distinguish between solitude, as experienced by St. Catherine of Sienna, and isolation? Reflect on the significance of solitude in nurturing one’s spiritual life.
  2. Family Dynamics and Vocation: Consider St. Catherine’s family’s reaction to her desire for solitude and her chosen vocation. How can we reconcile familial concerns with personal vocations and aspirations?
  3. Understanding Third Orders: Reflect on the concept of third orders in religious life, such as the Dominican third order to which St. Catherine belonged. How might third orders provide avenues for laypeople to deepen their spiritual lives while living in the world?
  4. Discerning Religious Experiences: St. Catherine’s experiences of visions and dreams played a significant role in her spiritual journey. How can individuals discern whether their religious experiences are genuine messages from God or products of their own psyche?
  5. The Dark Night of the Soul: Reflect on St. Catherine’s “dark night” experience and her perseverance through spiritual struggles. How can we maintain faith and love for God during times of spiritual dryness or perceived abandonment?
  6. The Cell of Self-Knowledge: Explore the concept of the “cell of self-knowledge” as discussed by St. Catherine. How might we cultivate inner recollection and self-awareness amidst the distractions of daily life?
  7. Love for God and Others: St. Catherine emphasized the connection between one’s love for God and the quality of relationships with others. Reflect on how our interactions with others reflect our love for God, and vice versa.
  8. Misconceptions and Authentic Spirituality: Consider misconceptions about St. Catherine’s relationship with the Church, particularly regarding her interactions with the papacy. How can we discern authentic spirituality within the context of the Church’s teachings and authority?

St.-Catherine-of-Siena-book-200x300
This series is based on ‘Catherine of Siena’ by Fr. Thomas McDermott

For the entire Discerning Hearts series “The Life and Teachings of St. Catherine of Siena” visit here

Fr. Thomas McDermott, OP is Regent of Studies for the Dominican Province of St. Albert the Great and is the author of “Catherine of Siena: Spiritual Development in Her Life and Teaching” (Paulist, 2008) and “Filled with all the Fullness of God: An Introduction to Catholic Spirituality”. He obtained a doctorate in spiritual theology from the Angelicum and taught for several years at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis. He crrently serves as pastor at St. Vincent Ferrer, in Chicago, IL.

SCS3 – The Mystical Experiences – St. Catherine of Siena with Fr. Thomas McDermott O.P. – Discerning Hearts Podcast

The Mystical Experiences – St. Catherine of Siena with Fr. Thomas McDermott O.P.

Fr. Thomas McDermott - Prayer and the Dominican Tradition 1

Fr. Thomas McDermott and Kris McGregor discuss the life of St. Catherine of Siena, focusing on her mystical experiences and their significance: he mystical spousals with Christ, her understanding of virtues and their role in Christian life, and her practical approach to serving others, exemplified by her care for the sick and difficult; her willingness to endure suffering for the salvation of others, culminating in her experience of the stigmata.


Fr. Thomas McDermott - Prayer and the Dominican Tradition 2

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

  1. Mystical Spousals and Divine Union: How does St. Catherine of Sienna’s experience of mystical spousals with Christ reflect her deep union with God? What insights can we gain from her understanding of this mystical experience?
  2. Virtues and Christian Life: In what ways did St. Catherine emphasize the importance of virtues in Christian life, particularly in contrast to merely following the commandments? How can we apply her emphasis on virtues in our own spiritual journey?
  3. Practical Love and Service: Reflect on St. Catherine’s practical approach to serving others, such as her care for the sick and difficult, like Andrea. How does her example challenge us to overcome our own limitations and extend love and service to those around us?
  4. Union with God and Suffering: Discuss St. Catherine’s deep union with God and her willingness to endure suffering for the salvation of others, as seen in her experience of the stigmata. How does her example inspire us to embrace suffering as a means of drawing closer to Christ and participating in His redemptive work?
  5. Gospel-Centered Reflection: Consider how St. Catherine’s teachings and experiences remain closely aligned with the Gospel. How can we strive to center our own spiritual reflections and practices on the teachings of Christ as she did?

St.-Catherine-of-Siena-book-200x300
This series is based on ‘Catherine of Siena’ by Fr. Thomas McDermott

For the entire Discerning Hearts series “The Life and Teachings of St. Catherine of Siena” visit here

Fr. Thomas McDermott, OP is Regent of Studies for the Dominican Province of St. Albert the Great and is the author of “Catherine of Siena: Spiritual Development in Her Life and Teaching” (Paulist, 2008) and “Filled with all the Fullness of God: An Introduction to Catholic Spirituality”. He obtained a doctorate in spiritual theology from the Angelicum and taught for several years at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis. He crrently serves as pastor at St. Vincent Ferrer, in Chicago, IL.