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Discover Catholic Saints and the Sacred Places They Touched

Learn about the lives of Catholic saints, their legacies, and the holy places where they walked. Encounter stories of grace, virtue, and purpose.

Be Inspired with Saintly Ways — Stories & Reflections

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SaintlyWays invites you to explore the lives of holy men and women through the sacred places that shaped them. From the basilicas of Europe to the mission trails of Asia, uncover the stories, traditions, and pilgrimage routes of Catholic saints. Browse our growing directory of saints, pilgrimage destinations, and sacred terms in our Catholic glossary to deepen your faith journey.

Saints of OCTOBER

Image of St. Luke

Greece

Known for his Gospel and Acts of the Apostles.

Image of St. Laura

Italy

St. Laura was a martyr known for her faith and courage in the face of persecution.

Image of St. Paul of the Cross

Italy | Priest

St. Paul of the Cross was the founder of the Passionists, known for their devotion to the Passion of Christ.

Image of St. Celine

France

St. Celine was a martyr known for her faith and courage in the face of persecution.

Image of St. Margaret Clitherow

England | Laity

Known for her faith and martyrdom.

Image of St. Ursula

Germany

St. Ursula was a martyr known for her faith and courage in the face of persecution.

Image of St. Pope John Paul II

Poland | Priest

Known for his extensive travels and interfaith dialogue.

Image of St. John of Capistrano

Italy | Priest

St. John of Capistrano was a Franciscan friar and preacher known for his defense of the faith against the Hussites.

Image of St. Jude Thaddaeus

Israel

Apostle and brother of St. James the Less.

Image of St. Simon

Israel

Known for his ministry and martyrdom.

Featured Pilgrimage Sites

Image of Basilica Parrocchiale Santa Teresa d'Avila

Basilica Parrocchiale Santa Teresa d'Avila

Italy

20th-century Roman basilica, blending Baroque and Neoclassical styles, dedicated to Saint Teresa of Avila.

Image of Basilica di Santa Cecilia in Trastevere

Basilica di Santa Cecilia in Trastevere

Italy

Cloistered convent housing Cavallini's masterpiece fresco & a renowned sculpture of St. Cecilia.

Image of Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli

Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli

Italy

Vast, 16th-century domed church where St Francis founded his order, with a history & art museum.

Image of Basilica of Saint Paul Outside The Walls

Basilica of Saint Paul Outside The Walls

Italy

Magnificent papal basilica dating from the 4th century, with tomb of St Paul & elegant cloisters.

Image of Basilica of Saint Therese of Lisieux

Basilica of Saint Therese of Lisieux

France

Major Catholic pilgrimage site built from 1929 to 1951 with an interior of ornate mosaics & marble.

Image of Basilica of San Clemente

Basilica of San Clemente

Italy

Layered Roman house, early Christian church, and basilica: a unique glimpse into Roman and Christian history.

Image of Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano

Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano

Italy

Landmark cathedral, the Pope's official seat, with ornate 1700s facade & statues of the Apostles.

Image of Basilica superiore di San Francesco d'Assisi

Basilica superiore di San Francesco d'Assisi

Italy

13th-century Gothic basilica, housing St. Francis' remains and Giotto's renowned frescoes.

Image of Basilique Cathédrale Saint-Denis

Basilique Cathédrale Saint-Denis

France

Imposing Gothic cathedral with ornate 12th-century stained-glass windows & many reclining statues.

Image of Basilique Saint-Remi

Basilique Saint-Remi

France

Medieval church, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, housing an abbey-museum & St Rémi's tomb.

Glossary Term of the Day

Narthex

The narthex is a significant architectural element in Catholic tradition, serving as a vestibule or entryway to the church proper. Its location, at the western end, precedes the nave and signifies a transition between the secular world outside and the sacred space within. The narthex’s liturgical function historically included penitents awaiting reconciliation or those not fully participating in the Mass. While its use varies among churches, its symbolic meaning remains consistent: a space of preparation and welcome before entering the heart of the church’s sacred ritual. It’s a liminal zone, bridging the outside world and the sanctuary.

See More Glossary Terms »

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