Catharine Burton facts for kids

Catharine Burton (1668–1714) was an English nun. She was also known by her religious name, Mary Xaveria of the Angels. She belonged to a special group of nuns called the Discalced Carmelites.

Her Life Story

Catharine was born on November 4, 1668, in a place called Beyton, Suffolk, England. She was one of ten children in her family. Her father, Thomas Burton, raised the children by himself after her mother passed away. He had even thought about becoming a monk himself!

Many of Catharine's family members chose a religious life. Two of her sisters became nuns, and one of her brothers became a priest. One of her sisters even joined the same Carmelite convent as Catharine.

Becoming a Nun

Catharine felt a strong calling to become a nun. So, in 1693, she traveled to the Spanish Netherlands (which is now part of Belgium). There, she joined a monastery of English Discalced Carmelite nuns in Antwerp.

She chose the religious name Mary Xaveria of the Angels. In 1694, she officially became a nun. Even though she was often very sick, she was chosen several times to be the prioress (the leader) of her monastery.

Her Legacy

Catharine Burton passed away on February 9, 1714. She was known for her holy life. After her death, it was said that her body was found to be well-preserved, which was seen as a sign of her special holiness.

A book about her life was written by Thomas Hunter. It was based on her own writings and other information. This book was published in 1876 and again in 2010.