Two Places, One Mission: The (10)Saints Who Bilocated for God’s Glory
Profiled Saints and Beati Known to Have Bi-Located The Catholic Church has long been a treasure trove of mystical phenomena, from incorruptible bodies to miraculous healings. Among these wonders is the extraordinary gift of bilocation—being present in two places at once. While this phenomenon remains rare, it has been documented in the lives of several saints and blesseds. Below is a detailed account of some of these remarkable individuals. Saint Angelus of Acri (1669–1739) Saint Angelus, a Capuchin friar from Italy, was renowned for his fiery preaching and deep humility. Though known primarily for his missionary zeal, Angelus was also gifted with bilocation. On several occasions, he was reported to be simultaneously preaching in different towns. Witnesses described him as appearing in two places with identical fervor and clarity. This miraculous gift allowed him to spread the Gospel more effectively across regions where he was deeply loved and revered. Saint Catherine de’ Ricci (1522–1590) A Dominican tertiary, Saint Catherine de’ Ricci is celebrated for her mystical experiences, including the stigmata and bilocation. Her gift of bilocation was often exercised to counsel people in distant locations. One famous instance involved her simultaneous presence in her convent in Prato and with a sick relative far away, offering comfort and prayers. Catherine’s extraordinary ability drew admiration from many, including prominent figures in the Church, who testified to her spiritual gifts. Saint Drogo (1105–1186) Saint Drogo, the patron saint of shepherds and the physically afflicted, led a life of extreme penance and solitude. Despite his reclusive lifestyle, accounts of his bilocation surfaced when he was seen tending sheep in two distant locations simultaneously. His humility and detachment from worldly concerns allowed him to live fully in service to God, making him a vessel for such miraculous phenomena. Saint Felice of Nicosia (1715–1787) Felice of Nicosia, another Capuchin friar, was known for his profound humility and dedication to serving the poor. Eyewitnesses claimed to see him working in the friary while also visiting the sick in nearby villages at the same time. His bilocation was a reflection of his intense love for the suffering and his desire to serve wherever he was needed most. Saint Gerard Majella (1726–1755) Saint Gerard, the patron saint of mothers and unborn children, was a Redemptorist brother with numerous miraculous gifts, including bilocation. He was once seen simultaneously attending to the sick in one location while assisting in the construction of a monastery in another. His bilocation highlighted his ceaseless dedication to helping others, regardless of physical limitations. Saint John Joseph of the Cross (1654–1739) A Franciscan friar, Saint John Joseph of the Cross, was known for his ascetic lifestyle and mystical experiences. Reports of his bilocation often involved him assisting his fellow friars during times of need, appearing to them to provide spiritual guidance and comfort. His supernatural ability underscored his deep union with God and his commitment to the Franciscan community. Saint Padre Pio (1887–1968) Saint Padre Pio of Pietrelcina, perhaps the most well-documented case of bilocation in modern times, exhibited this gift throughout his life. Numerous testimonies recount him appearing in distant locations while physically remaining in his monastery. For example, during World War II, soldiers reported seeing him on battlefields, urging them to repent and seek God. His bilocation often served as a means to bring comfort, conversion, and faith to those in need. Saint Peter Regalatus (1390–1456) A Franciscan reformer and mystic, Saint Peter Regalatus was gifted with bilocation during his tireless work of renewing the Franciscan Order. Witnesses claimed he appeared simultaneously in his monastery and in a nearby church, engaging in prayer and spiritual counsel. This miraculous phenomenon was seen as an extension of his deep spiritual life and profound commitment to his vocation. Saint Verolus of Marcenay (6th Century) Though less known than others on this list, Saint Verolus of Marcenay is remembered for his holiness and miraculous abilities, including bilocation. Accounts from his contemporaries describe his simultaneous presence at the monastery and in distant villages, where he ministered to the poor and sick. His life serves as a testament to God’s power working through humble servants. Reflection on Bilocation The gift of bilocation remains a profound mystery, often associated with intense sanctity and selflessness. These saints and blesseds remind us of the limitless possibilities of God’s grace. Their lives demonstrate that divine intervention can manifest in extraordinary ways to further the mission of the Church and inspire the faithful. May these saints intercede for us, that we too may grow in holiness and serve others with unwavering dedication, even if only in one place at a time.