Originally published in 1986 and now available in paperback for the first time, this book celebrates the lives of men and women whose goodness and devotion to God have inspired the world. Here, arranged according to their special days throughout the whole year, are saints from different periods of history and from every walk of life. Some, such as David (patron saint of Wales) led lives of great simplicity. Others were devout eccentrics, such as Simeon Stylites who lived on a pillar for thirty-seven years. Some, such as Joan of Arc were at the forefront of public affairs. On almost every page inspirational sayings illustrate the courage, humour and wisdom of those who put their commitment to goodness before everything else. Lavish illustrations - more than three hundred paintings, many in full colour - provide a rich, unusual and comprehensive gallery of portraits spanning almost two hundred years of art.