Part Ten of Doctors of the Church--The Four Ladies Plus the Most Perfect of All

In summary, the four female Doctors of the Church show us that the Illuminative State involves the enlightening of the mind and soul with grace, and the Unitive State brings the Bridal Love of Christ to the soul, enveloping the saint in grace.

These four ladies reflect the best of characteristics of women who were united with God while still on earth. That their writings help us peek into the souls of those who know God and are completely known by God is a great grace for us.

These, our sisters in Christ, lead the way to perfection.

Suffering, purgation, cleansing, filling, enlightenment, filling.

Their writings fall into the categories of theology and spirituality, guiding us and encouraging us.

Of course, they point to the most perfect of all of God's creations, the most perfect of all women, the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Theotokos, who was created from the moment of her conception in perfection and the fullness of grace.

The Immaculate Conception, (as do the four lady saints), leads us to a union with Christ, each as we were created to have.

May Our Queen and Mother Mary, Teresa, Therese, Catherine and Hildegard look kindly on us today as we just glimpse at their greatness in the Spirit.