Four Women Doctors of the Church

Overview

"In Malone's popular introduction we encounter women who, in their respective contexts, championed female authority with passion, creativity, and the freedom of their convictions. At times provocative, but always insightful, Malone's riveting prose uncovers both the gifts and proclivities of each woman mystic, thereby shedding new light on how female wisdom, compassion, and grace, might again play an authoritative role in today's Church." --Mary Ann Hinsdale, IHM, Boston College

"They were women of their time, as well as women who shared their amazing knowledge of God with others in startlingly, sometimes shockingly, imaginative ways." --Megan McKenna, author, Not Counting Women and Children

"This highly readable introduction to the four women named Doctors of the Church makes these magisterial teachers come alive. Each was very different, but they shared a common thread of strong intelligence and fearless following of their vocations. A great choice for general interest study groups." --Women's Alliance for Theology, Ethics and Ritual (WATER)

Four women have been recognized by the Vatican as Doctors of the Church and thus form a part of the magisterium (authentic teaching) of the Roman Catholic Church. Here, theologian Mary T. Malone adeptly explores the stories of these visionaries, introducing us to the wisdom of the formidable Hildegard of Bingen; the all-encompassing compassion of Catherine of Siena; the groundbreaking writings of Teresa of Ávila; and finally, the heartfelt “Little Way” of the much-loved Thérèse of Lisieux.

This timely and engrossing work brings to life the trials and triumphs of these inspiring women, whose bravery and intellectual prowess opened the door for new discussions on the role of women in the Church.

Mary T. Malone taught for almost forty years at St. Augustine’s Seminary, Toronto and in St Jerome’s University, the Catholic college of the University of Waterloo. She is the author of several books, including the three-volume History, Women & Christianity (Orbis). She lives in Ireland.