St. Catherine of Siena

Catholics should learn "spiritual maternity" from the example of St. Catherine of Siena, Pope Benedict said during his weekly general audience Nov. 24.

Spiritual mothers encourage people to keep their lives focused on God and prompt people to aim to live holier lives, the pope said.

St. Catherine, a 14th-century doctor of the Church, felt compelled to conform her life and her heart to the heart of Jesus, he said.

The pope asked that everyone "learn to love like Christ, in familiarity with him, nourished by prayer, reflection on the word of God and the sacraments."