Welcome
Welcome to the website for the Saint Katharine Drexel Tomb at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Philadelphia.
On August 2, 2018, Saint Katharine Drexel’s sacred remains were translated from the Motherhouse of the Community she founded, the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, to the Cathedral Basilica. The newly constructed tomb, located near the Drexel Family altar on the left as you enter the Cathedral, is open for visitation and prayer.
Through visitation of the tomb, and through this website, visitors will learn more about the life of Saint Katharine Drexel. Canonized on October 1, 2000, Saint Katharine is the second American-born person ever to be canonized. Born into tremendous wealth as part of the Drexel family, she gave up her life of privilege to found the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament in 1891. She dedicated her life to serve the needs of African Americans and Native Americans, and inspired so many women, who joined the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, to follow her example.
Everything about Saint Katharine Drexel’s life as a religious, a foundress, and servant of those in need flowed from her faith and love for the Most Blessed Sacrament. From the Holy Eucharist, this saintly woman, who is an example for us, received the grace and strength to further the Kingdom of the Lord. May the presence of Saint Katharine Drexel prompt many to live the Gospel more fully and faithfully from the graces of Holy Communion.
We are pleased so many joined us for the Public Celebration of the Installation of the Tomb of Saint Katharine Drexel during the 11:00_a.m. Solemn Mass on Sunday, November 18, 2018. The Mass and the Archdiocesan celebration of the installation of the new tomb were celebrated by Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap.
Saint Katharine Drexel, pray for us!
Rector of the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul