Life of the Saints

Saint Bernard of Clairvaux: the life, history and spirituality of the great Cistercian monk

Among the great spiritual figures of the Middle Ages, Saint Bernard of Clairvaux holds a special place. A Cistercian monk, abbot, preacher, theologian, adviser to the popes and spiritual writer, he exerted a considerable influence on the Church and European society in the 12th century. Read more...

Saint John Chrysostom: the life, history and teachings of the great Christian preacher

Among the leading figures of the early centuries of Christianity, Saint John Chrysostom holds a special place. Bishop of Constantinople, a remarkable preacher, theologian and tireless defender of the poor, he is regarded as one of the greatest Church Fathers. Read more...

Saint Maximilian Kolbe: the martyr of charity who gave his life to save a family man

Among the great Christian figures of the 20th century, Saint Maximilian Kolbe holds a very special place. A Polish Franciscan priest, missionary, apostle of the Virgin Mary and martyr at Auschwitz, he remains to this day an extraordinary witness to faith, courage and charity. Read more...

The Visitation of the Virgin Mary: a meeting of faith, joy and charity

The Feast of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary is celebrated on 31 May in the Catholic Church. This event, recounted in the Gospel according to Saint Luke (Lk 1:39–56), is one of the most beautiful episodes in the life of Mary. It shows us the Mother of God humbly placing herself at the service of her cousin Elizabeth, just a few days after receiving the announcement from the Angel Gabriel. Read more...

The story of Bernadette Soubirous

A childhood marked by povertyBernadette Soubirous was born on 7 January 1844 in Lourdes, into a very modest family. Her father was a miller, but the family soon fell on hard times financially. They ended up living in an old disused prison called the Cachot. Read more...