Encyclopedia of Saints by Rosemary Ellen Guiley

Prior to his religious conversion, St. Francis of Assisi was a liar, thief, and virtual madman known for running naked in the streets. Teresa of Avila healed herself on her deathbed by praying to her patron saint. St. Augustine converted after a terrifying dream in which God beat him black and blue for his pagan beliefs. These are just some of the colorful and riveting details that can be found in the Encyclopedia of Saints.

This single-volume guide includes more than 400 entries that offer detailed biographical accounts of principal saints of the Catholic and Orthodox churches. Drawing on extensive research, the book explores their lives and religious journeys, mystical experiences, philosophies, and important influences.

Appendixes include information on patron saints by topic, a calendar of feast days, beatified and canonized popes, an explanation of the canonization process, a glossary of terms, and a glossary of heresies.Saints profiled include:Blessed Andre Bessette, Anselm. Barnabas, Catherine of Sweden, Elizabeth Ann Seton, Fabian, Pope Gregory I, Hildegard of Bingen, John of the Cross, Lucy of Syracuse, Mark the Evangelist, Nicodemus, Rose of Lima, Simon Stylites, Thomas Aquinas, William of Norwich, Zita.

Synopsis This volume explores the lives and religious journeys, mystical experiences, miracles, philosophies, and important influences of principal saints of the Catholic and Orthodox churches. In the approximately 400 entries, Gulley (author, columnist, and teacher on spirituality) profiles their lives and contributions (especially as related to education, charity, and health care), and has included some of the early martyrs, legendary figures, and church fathers and doctors.

The book contains many b&w reproductions of prints and paintings. Appendices include information on patron saints by topic, a calendar of feast days, glossaries of terms and heresies, an explanation of the canonization process, and beatified and canonized popes.

Paperbook 81/2" x 11"