How we write about the saints

Our sources

We draw on the Roman Martyrology, the writings and letters of the saints themselves where they survive, reputable Catholic reference works, historical scholarship and, where relevant, the official documents of the Holy See (beatifications, canonisations, encyclicals citing a saint).

Levels of certainty

Not every detail attached to a saint is historically settled. Where a story is well attested, we present it plainly. Where it is a beloved devotional tradition of uncertain origin, we say so. Where a claim is doubted or has been corrected by later scholarship, we say that too. Every saint profile carries a source-quality status.

Quotations

We do not invent quotations. If a saying is popularly attributed to a saint but cannot be verified in their writings or in early testimony, we omit it rather than repeat it. When we quote, we cite the source and the location.

Devotional traditions

We treat devotional traditions — patronages, symbols, popular stories — with respect and honesty. They matter to real people and often carry real spiritual insight, even when their historical roots are complicated. We label what is tradition and what is history.

Correction

If you notice an error, we want to know. Every profile lists its sources and we welcome corrections.

What we will not do

• Fabricate Latin phrases or invented Catholic quotations.
• Present uncertain tradition as settled fact.
• Use generative AI to write biographical content.
• Present ourselves as an official publication of the Holy See or of any diocese.