Elizabeth Catez (1880-1906) : a mystic for the 21st century

Abstract

Elisabeth Catez (1880-1906), a relatively unknown French mystical writer, lived an obscure life as a Carmelite in Dijon, France, dying at the young age of 26 yrs. Whilst not reporting extraordinary mystical experiences, nevertheless, Elisabeth articulates a profound mystical understanding of the Trinity, with particular reference to the indwelling Triune God. Born in an era marked by keen interest in the spiritual and aesthetic, Elisabeth was also clearly influenced by the prevailing historical, sociological and theological currents of her day. Although Elisabeth is more of an artist than a theologian, her writings portray a spiritual depth uncommon for a relatively uneducated young French woman in the early twentieth century. As a member of the Carmelite family worldwide, Elisabeth’s thought reverberates throughout the continent of Africa, in the many Carmels founded over more than one hundred years ago, and witnesses to the on-going influence of the spirit of Carmel for the 21st century.