Basilicas

“Do not be like superficial sightseers. . . . Tourists do this. Pilgrims, on the other hand, immerse themselves fully in the places they encounter.” —Pope Francis

Pope Francis’s call to move beyond sightseeing and into pilgrimage sets the tone for Basilicas: A Pilgrim’s Guide to America’s Most Remarkable Catholic Churches—a breathtaking Catholic travel guide to the sacred beauty, history, and spiritual richness of the Catholic basilicas of the United States.

Grady Connolly, known as the Social Thomist, has personally visited every single one of the ninety-four Catholic basilicas in the United States. Drawing on years of travel, prayer, and lived encounter, he offers a Catholic guidebook designed not merely to be admired but to be used. Basilicas is as portable as it is beautiful—crafted to slip easily into a backpack, withstand the wear of the road, and accompany readers as they explore the stand-out Catholic churches in this country.

Basilicas are churches formally designated by the pope as special places of pilgrimage because of their profound spiritual, historical, and cultural significance. While every diocese has a cathedral, a basilica stands apart as a living witness to the faith, sacrifice, and devotion of the community that built it. When approached with prayerful intentionality, even a brief visit to a basilica can become a genuine encounter with Christ and his Church.

Inside this Catholic travel and pilgrimage guide, you’ll discover

• Essential Information for Every Basilica
  Clear, accessible details on history, papal designation, and the faithful communities who have shaped each sacred space.
• Stunning Photography of Catholic Churches and Sacred Art
  Striking images that highlight architectural beauty, devotional details, and moments easily missed by the casual visitor.
• Personal Encounters and Reflections
  Thoughtful spiritual insights and firsthand stories drawn from Connolly’s journey through America’s Catholic basilicas.
• Digital Pilgrim Resources
  A unique QR code for each basilica linking to videos and in-depth reflections, helping readers plan visits and deepen their experience.

Whether the nearest basilica is a flight away or just down the road, Basilicas invites you to walk as a pilgrim rather than a tourist. This rich Catholic devotional travel guide opens the door to deeper faith, greater wonder, and a renewed appreciation for the beauty and enduring legacy of Catholicism in America.

Ideal for Catholics seeking meaningful travel, parish groups, pilgrimage planners, OCIA candidates and converts, lovers of Catholic history and architecture, and anyone longing to encounter God through sacred places.