"The Church gives thanks for all the manifestations of the feminine genius which have appeared in the course of history, in the midst of all peoples and nations; she gives thanks for all the charisms that the Holy Spirit distributes to women in the history of the People of God, for all the victories which she owes to their faith, hope, and charity: she gives thanks for all the fruits of feminine holiness (n. 31)."--- Blessed Pope John Paul II in his Apostolic Letter Mulieris Dignitatem Holy Women included are: St. Hildegard of Bingen St. Claire of Assisi St. Matilda of Hackeborn St. Gertrude the Great Bl. Angela of Foligno St. Elizabeth of Hungary St. Bridget of Sweden Marguerite d Oingt St. Juliana of Cornillon St Catherine of Siena Julian of Norwich St. Veronica Giuliani St. Catherine of Bologna St. Catherine of Genoa St. Joan of Arc St. Teresa of Avila St. Therese of Lisieux Women have always played a unique and critical role throughout Scripture which has continued through today. In his weekly addresses, Pope Benedict XVI expertly and thoughtfully explores the life stories of 17 such holy women. From St. Hildegard of Bingen to St. Teresa of Avilla to St. Joan of Arc and many more in between, each one brings a fresh experience and example of faith that is still relevant today. These models of prayer, faith, and action will help you gain a fuller understanding of Church history as well as personal faith. Bring your faith to life with the spark of history as told by the pope himself.