Hubbry Logo
Dicastery for the Causes of SaintsDicastery for the Causes of SaintsMain
Open search
Dicastery for the Causes of Saints
Community hub
Dicastery for the Causes of Saints
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Contribute something
Dicastery for the Causes of Saints
Dicastery for the Causes of Saints
Dicastery for the Causes of Saints
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Dicastery for the Causes of Saints
Coat of arms of the Holy See

Palazzo delle Congregazioni in Piazza Pio XII (in front of St. Peter's Square) is the workplace for most congregations of the Roman Curia
Dicastery overview
Formed22 January 1588; 437 years ago (1588-01-22)
Preceding agencies
  • Sacred Congregation of Rites
  • Congregation for the Causes of Saints
TypeDicastery
HeadquartersPalazzo delle Congregazioni, Piazza Pio XII, Rome, Italy
Dicastery executives
Websitehttps://www.causesanti.va
Part of a series on the
Roman Curia
of the
Holy See
Secretariat of State
Dicasteries
Institutions of justice
Institutions of finance
Offices
Institutes
Interdicasterial commissions
Commissions and committees
History


Former dicasteries

Related topics
icon Catholicism portal

In the Catholic Church, the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints, previously named the Congregation for the Causes of Saints (Latin: Congregatio de Causis Sanctorum), is the dicastery of the Roman Curia that oversees the complex process that leads to the canonization of saints, passing through the steps of a declaration of "heroic virtues" and beatification. After preparing a case, including the approval of miracles, the case is presented to the pope, who decides whether or not to proceed with beatification or canonization.

History

[edit]

Early history

[edit]

Saints were recognised by popular acclamation until the 12th century. After controversial cases, Pope Alexander III in 1170 required all candidates for sainthood to be approved by the Vatican. The papacy took total authority over the process in the 17th century.[1]

Sacred Congregation of Rites

[edit]
Main article: Sacred Congregation of Rites

The Sacred Congregation for Rites was created by Pope Sixtus V on 22 January 1588 in the bull Immensa aeterni Dei.[2] The congregation dealt both with regulating divine worship and the causes of saints.[3]

Congregation for the Causes of Saints

[edit]

On 8 May 1969, Pope Paul VI issued the apostolic constitution Sacra Rituum Congregatio [de], separating the Congregation into two parts: The Congregation for the Divine Worship and the renamed Sacred Congregation for the Causes of Saints, which was given three offices, those of the judiciary, the Promoter General of the Faith, and the historical-juridical.[2]

With the changes in the canonization process introduced by Pope John Paul II in 1983, a College of Relators, with five relators (priests appointed to oversee the canonisation process),[1] was added to prepare the cases of those declared as Servants of God.[2] In January 2014, the Prefect of the Congregation announced that at the direction of Pope Francis those working on canonizations must adhere to financial guidelines to eliminate unfairness in the treatment of cases based on the financial resources provided.[4] According to L'Osservatore Romano, Pope Francis hoped to promote the causes of those less well-known, those from poorer regions, and those who were victims of 20th-century totalitarian persecutions.[5]

Dicastery for the Causes of Saints

[edit]

As part of his 2022 reorganization of the Curia in Praedicate evangelium, Pope Francis renamed the congregation to the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints. It is working on about 1,600 causes, some dating from the 15th century.[1]

Canonization process since 1983

[edit]
See also: Canonization

The current steps for the recognition of a miracle follow rules laid down in 1983 by the apostolic constitution Divinus perfectionis Magister. Changes to the previous system included reduction of the waiting period for opening a Cause to five years after the candidate's death, previously 50; halving the number of miracles required; and abolishing the office of "devil's advocate", whose task was always to argue against canonisation.[1]

The legislation establishes two procedural stages: the diocesan one and that of what is known as the Roman Congregation. The first takes place within the diocese where the allegedly miraculous event happened. The bishop opens the enquiry on the presumed miracle in which depositions of the eyewitnesses questioned by a duly constituted court are gathered, as well as the complete clinical and instrumental documentation inherent to the case. In the second, the Congregation examines the documents sent and eventual supplementary documentation, pronouncing its judgment on the matter.[6]

Assessing miracles

[edit]

The miracle may go beyond the possibilities of nature either in the substance of the fact or in the subject, or only in the way it occurs. The Dicastery distinguishes three degrees of miracles. The first degree is represented by resurrection from the dead (quoad substantiam). The second concerns the subject (quoad subiectum): the sickness of a person is judged incurable, in its course it can even have destroyed bones or vital organs; in this case not only is complete recovery noticed, but even wholesale reconstitution of the organs (restitutio in integrum). The third degree (quoad modum) involves instantaneous recovery from an illness that treatment could only have achieved after a long period.[citation needed]

In 2016 Cardinal Parolin, under the mandate of Pope Francis, approved new Regulations for the Medical Board of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. The Regulations were published and signed by Cardinal Amato and Archbishop Marcello Bartolucci. The current text, explains Archbishop Bartolucci, "is inspired by the previous Regulation approved by Paul VI on 23 April 1976 and, aside from the linguistic and procedural updating, introduces some new elements, such as: the qualified majority, to proceed ad ulteriora to the examination of a presumed miracle, is at least 5/7 or 4/6; the case cannot be re-examined more than three times; for the re-examination of the presumed miracle a Board of nine members is required; the term of office of the president of the Board can be renewed only once (five years, plus another five year term); all those who are occupied with a presumed miracle (promoters of the cause, tribunal, postulators, experts, officials of the Dicastery) are held to secrecy[.]"[7] These "new rules approved by Pope Francis and released by the Vatican on Friday are designed to make the process for approving a miracle in a sainthood cause more stringent, and also to ensure there's a clear paper trail behind who's picking up the tab and how much is being spent."[8]

Canonization process until 1983

[edit]
See also: Canonization

Martyrs

[edit]

The decision as to whether martyrs had died for their faith in Christ and the consequent permission of veneration lay originally with the bishop of the place in which they had borne their testimony. The bishop inquired into the motive of the person's death and, on finding they had died a martyr, sent their name with an account of their martyrdom to other churches, especially neighboring ones, so that, in the event of approval by their respective bishops, the cultus of the martyr might extend to their churches also and that the faithful, as is said of Ignatius of Antioch in the "Acts" of his martyrdom[9] "might hold communion with the generous martyr of Christ" (generoso Christi martyri communicarent). Martyrs whose cause, so to speak, had been discussed, and the fame of whose martyrdom had been confirmed, were known as proved (vindicati) martyrs. That word probably did not antedate the fourth century, when it was introduced into the Church at Carthage; but the fact is certainly older. In the earlier ages, therefore, this veneration was entirely local and passed from one church to another with the permission of their bishops. This is clear from the fact that in ancient Christian cemeteries there are found paintings of only those martyrs who had suffered in that neighborhood. It explains, also, the almost universal veneration very quickly paid to, e.g., Lawrence, Cyprian, and Sixtus II, who were killed by the Roman Emperor Valerian.[10]

Confessors

[edit]

The veneration of confessors, who died peacefully after a life of heroic virtue, is not as ancient as that of martyrs. It was in the fourth century, as is commonly held, that confessors were first given public ecclesiastical honour, though occasionally praised in ardent terms by earlier Fathers.[citation needed]

Individual confessors themselves were sometimes called martyrs. Gregory Nazianzen calls Basil of Caesarea a martyr;[11] John Chrysostom applies the same title to Eustachius of Antioch;[12] Paulinus of Nola writes of Felix of Nola that he won heavenly honours sine sanguine martyr ("A bloodless martyr");[13] Gregory the Great styles Zeno of Verona as a martyr[14] and Metronius gives to Roterius[15] the same title. Later on, the names of confessors were inserted in the diptychs, and reverence was paid them. Their tombs were honoured[16] with the same title (martyria) as those of the martyrs. It remained true, however, at all times that it was unlawful to venerate confessors without permission of the ecclesiastical authority as it had been so to venerate martyrs.[17]

Authority to canonize

[edit]

For several centuries, the bishops, or in some places only the primates and patriarchs,[18] could grant martyrs and confessors public ecclesiastical honour; such honour, however, was always decreed only for the local territory of which the grantors had jurisdiction. Universal acceptance of the cultus was said to be made possible by the pope because he claimed to be the sole ruler the universal Catholic Church.[19]

Toward the end of the eleventh century the popes judged it necessary to restrict episcopal authority in this regard, and therefore decreed that the virtues and miracles of persons proposed for public veneration should be examined in councils, more specifically in general councils. Popes Urban II, Calixtus II, and Eugene III conformed to this discipline. It happened, even after these decrees, that "some, following the ways of the pagans and deceived by the fraud of the evil one, venerated as a saint a man who had been killed while intoxicated." Pope Alexander III (1159–81) prohibited his veneration in these words: "For the future you will not presume to pay him reverence, as, even though miracles were worked through him, it would not allow you to revere him as a saint unless with the authority of the Roman Church."[20] Theologians disagree as to the full import of this decretal: either a new law was instituted,[21] in which case the Pope then for the first time reserved the right of beatification to himself, or an existing law was confirmed. Because the decretal did not end all controversy and some bishops did not obey it in so far as it regarded beatification, the right of which they had certainly possessed hitherto, Urban VIII published a papal bull in 1634 which ended all discussion by exclusively reserving to the Apostolic See both the right of canonization and that of beatification.[22]

Leadership

[edit]

Current and recent past personnel are listed on the GCatholic Web site, which is updated as required.[23]

Prefect of Congregation for the Causes of Saints
Coat of arms of the Holy See
Incumbent
Vacant
since 21 April 2025
Congregation for the Causes of Saints
StyleHis Eminence
Member ofRoman Curia
Reports toThe Pope
AppointerThe Pope
Term lengthFive years, renewable

Prefects

[edit]

For The Congregation for Rites (till 1969)

[edit]

For Causes of Saints (from 1969)

[edit]

Secretaries

[edit]

Relator Generals

[edit]
  • Ambrosius Eber (1990 – 10 October 2008)[23]
  • Vincenso Criscuolo (10 October 2008 – 13 January 2024)[23]
  • Angelo Romano (since 13 January 2024)[23]

Promoter of the Faith (Prelate Theologian)

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Dicastery for the Causes of Saints

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Dicastery for the Causes of Saints is a of the , the administrative apparatus of the , tasked with overseeing the entire process of and of candidates for sainthood in the , ensuring that all procedures are conducted in accordance with and ultimately submitting recommendations to the Roman Pontiff for final approval. Formerly known as the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, the body traces its origins to the Sacred Congregation of Rites, established by in 1588 via the constitution Immensa Aeterni Dei to regulate liturgical matters and the veneration of saints. In 1969, restructured it through the Sacra Rituum Congregatio, separating the functions into the Congregation for Divine Worship and the newly formed Congregation for the Causes of Saints, which focused exclusively on and processes. This arrangement persisted until 2022, when 's reformed the , renaming the congregation as a dicastery and integrating it into the broader evangelization-oriented structure of the while preserving its core competencies. The 's primary functions include providing norms, advice, and direction to diocesan and eparchial bishops in investigating causes of sainthood; examining and verifying the documentation and processes of these causes; managing the administration of funds related to cause expenses; and determining the procedures for authenticating and preserving sacred relics. It also plays a key role in reviewing evidence of , martyrdom, and miracles attributed to candidates, as well as in proposing the conferral of the title of in collaboration with the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith. Through these activities, the promotes the Church's tradition of recognizing holy lives as models for the faithful and contributes to the universal call to holiness. Currently led by Prefect Cardinal Marcello Semeraro since 2020, the dicastery is structured with a secretary (Archbishop Fabio Fabene), an under-secretary (Monsignor Bogusław Stanisław Turek), and specialized offices such as the Promoter of the and the General Relator, supported by theological and legal experts. It also maintains a Commission for the New Martyrs—Witnesses of the , established by in 2023 in view of the 2025 Jubilee, to highlight contemporary testimonies of Christian and heroism. As of 2025, the dicastery continues to handle numerous causes, issuing decrees on virtues and miracles, and organizing events to commemorate newly recognized saints.

Overview

Establishment and purpose

The Dicastery for the Causes of Saints is a of the that handles all matters pertaining to the processes of and , serving as the central body responsible for investigating candidates' lives, virtues, and miracles to assist the Roman Pontiff in recognizing saints. Its primary purpose is to ensure the theological, historical, and juridical rigor required for declaring individuals as saints, by providing norms and guidance to diocesan and eparchial bishops on instructing causes, examining submitted acts for validity, verifying processes, and judging the merits of each case before presenting them to the for final approval. This centralized oversight promotes uniformity and prevents inconsistencies in the Church's saint-making tradition, while also addressing related responsibilities such as the authentication and preservation of sacred relics. The foundational prerequisite for this papal centralization emerged in the amid growing concerns over abuses in local practices, where bishops sometimes permitted the of individuals without sufficient scrutiny of their holiness or associated miracles. In response, issued a around 1170 that prohibited public of any person as a without explicit authorization from the Roman Church, thereby reserving the authority to the Pope to safeguard the integrity of such declarations and curb potential errors, such as honoring those whose lives did not exemplify . This mandate marked a pivotal shift from decentralized episcopal approvals to a unified Vatican process, laying the groundwork for the Dicastery's role in maintaining doctrinal and moral standards. Central to the Dicastery's purpose is the distinction between and : grants permission for limited, local of a candidate as "Blessed," allowing devotion in specific regions or communities without imposing it universally, whereas is a definitive papal declaration that enrolls the individual in the universal catalog of saints, obligating throughout the entire . By overseeing these stages, the Dicastery ensures that only those who have demonstrated extraordinary holiness and intercessory power are elevated, fostering models of Christian life for the faithful. It was restructured in its modern form under the apostolic constitution in 2022, adapting its foundational mission to contemporary curial reforms.

Current role in the Roman Curia

The Dicastery for the Causes of Saints was integrated into the reformed through Pope Francis's Praedicate Evangelium of 19 March 2022, which restructured it from a congregation to a dicastery to promote more streamlined governance and missionary orientation across Curial bodies. This shift emphasizes the Dicastery's role in supporting the Church's evangelizing mission by efficiently handling processes related to saints, while aligning with the 's overall service to the universal Church. Within the broader , the Dicastery collaborates closely with the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, particularly in evaluating and granting the title of to canonized saints, requiring a prior votum from the latter body. It also administers a dedicated fund to cover expenses associated with and causes, ensuring financial support for these proceedings without burdening local dioceses. The Dicastery's operational scope encompasses the examination of causes from around the world, providing specific norms and guidance to diocesan and eparchial bishops on initiating and conducting local processes in accordance with . Additionally, it establishes canonical procedures for verifying the authenticity of sacred relics and ensuring their proper preservation, submitting all judgments to the Roman Pontiff for final approval. The Dicastery oversees numerous ongoing causes of beatification and from around the world, some dating back centuries, reflecting its extensive global workload. The Prefect is Cardinal Marcello Semeraro (since October 15, 2020).

History

Early developments in canonization authority

In the early centuries of , the recognition of saints emerged through spontaneous local , primarily honoring martyrs and individuals renowned for their holiness, without any centralized or formal process. Communities acclaimed figures like martyrs by celebrating their anniversaries at tombs and integrating them into liturgical practices, relying on episcopal oversight rather than papal intervention. This decentralized approach persisted into the , where bishops often authenticated cults based on miracles and virtuous lives, but lacked uniform criteria across the Church. A pivotal shift toward formalization began in the late 10th century with Pope John XV's decree in 993, which established the first documented papal process through an into the and of Bishop , culminating in a at the . This marked a transition from purely local acclamation to structured investigation under papal authority. By 1170, Pope further centralized control with his decretal Audivimus, mandating that no new cults or veneration could proceed without explicit papal approval, effectively reserving the right of to the and curbing episcopal initiatives. During the 12th and 13th centuries, this reservation expanded as popes increasingly intervened in saintly causes, exemplified by Gregory IX's 1234 assertion of exclusive papal jurisdiction, which required detailed records of miracles and virtues to prevent unauthorized devotions. The theological foundation for this evolution positioned as an exercise of the pope's infallible teaching authority on matters of and morals, transforming it from communal into a juridical declaration that guaranteed the saint's eternal beatitude and licit public worship. Early like Augustine had emphasized the role of in confirming holiness, but medieval theologians, drawing on , framed papal judgments as divinely protected from error, ensuring uniformity in the universal Church. This doctrinal development underscored 's role in edifying the faithful through approved exemplars of Christian life. The establishment of the Sacred Congregation of Rites in 1588 provided institutional oversight of canonization processes, which Pope Urban VIII further advanced in the 17th century with decrees in 1625 that regulated inquiries into candidates' lives, miracles, and reputations, prohibiting premature cults and mandating apostolic processes to verify claims. These reforms, including the 1634 bull Cælestis Hierusalem cives, enhanced standardization.

Sacred Congregation of Rites (1588–1969)

The Sacred Congregation of Rites was established on 22 January 1588 by through the Immensa aeterni Dei, which reorganized the into fifteen permanent congregations to centralize administrative functions previously managed by popes and episcopal conferences. This body was specifically tasked with overseeing divine worship and the solemnization of saints' causes, marking the first dedicated Curial office for processes. The congregation's dual mandate encompassed the regulation of liturgical practices in the —such as approving missals, breviaries, and ceremonial rubrics—and the adjudication of and petitions. In saint-making, it differentiated between martyrs, whose cases advanced more swiftly on the basis of their through in hatred of the , and confessors, who needed documented evidence of and typically two post-mortem miracles to proceed. Significant reforms under in the 1630s enhanced procedural rigor, prohibiting public veneration of unbeatified servants of God and mandating comprehensive apostolic investigations with sworn testimonies and medical scrutiny of alleged miracles. These changes formalized the role of the Promoter of the Faith, or ""—an office created in 1588 to challenge evidence but made obligatory by Urban VIII's 1631 decree for the validity of all proceedings. From its inception until its division by Pope Paul VI's Sacra Rituum Congregatio on 8 May 1969, the congregation managed hundreds of causes, culminating in canonizations that reflected ideals, such as the joint ceremony for , , , , and Isidore the Farmer on 12 March 1622.

Congregation for the Causes of Saints (1969–2022)

The Congregation for the Causes of Saints was established on 8 May 1969 by through the Sacra Rituum Congregatio, which divided the longstanding Sacred Congregation of Rites into two distinct entities: one for Divine Worship and the other dedicated exclusively to the discernment of sainthood causes. This separation allowed the new congregation to concentrate solely on investigating the lives, virtues, martyrdoms, and miracles associated with potential saints, free from broader liturgical responsibilities. Composed of cardinals, bishops, theological consultors, and medical experts, the congregation introduced rigorous modern methods, including by a historical-scientific commission and theological evaluation to ensure the authenticity and doctrinal soundness of evidence. Following the Second Vatican Council, the congregation managed a significant increase in causes submitted from dioceses worldwide, reflecting renewed interest in contemporary models of holiness. It oversaw the examination of thousands of cases, emphasizing detailed scrutiny of historical documents, witness testimonies, and purported miracles to verify or martyrdom. A pivotal reform came in 1983 with Pope John Paul II's Divinus Perfectionis Magister, which streamlined procedures by strengthening the diocesan inquiry phase—where bishops gather initial evidence—and centralizing appellate review at the congregation level, while requiring interdisciplinary validation before papal approval. The congregation operated continuously as a key of the until 2022, processing high-profile causes that highlighted its role in promoting universal models of sanctity. Notable examples include the cause of of Calcutta, whose in 2003 and in 2016 followed extensive archival and medical review of attributed miracles, and that of , beatified in 2011 and canonized in 2014 after theological assessment of his virtues and intercessory signs. Under its auspices, alone proclaimed 482 saints, underscoring the congregation's contribution to a post-conciliar surge in canonizations.

Transition to Dicastery (2022–present)

On 19 March 2022, Pope Francis issued the apostolic constitution Praedicate evangelium, which restructured the Roman Curia by converting its congregations, including the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, into dicasteries to emphasize the Church's missionary orientation and foster greater inclusion of lay personnel in governance roles. This reform renamed the entity the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints, effective 5 June 2022, as part of a broader effort to align Curial operations with principles of synodality, promoting consultation and shared responsibility across the universal Church. The transition retained the dicastery's core functions, such as overseeing and processes, verifying relics, and conferring titles like , without introducing major procedural alterations to these responsibilities (Arts. 98–102). However, it introduced flexibility in staffing by permitting lay individuals to hold leadership positions, in line with the constitution's general norms for Curial offices (Arts. 14–17), thereby enhancing through diverse participation beyond the . This shift supported ongoing collaboration with local bishops, as the dicastery continued to provide advisory and normative guidance for diocesan investigations into sainthood causes (Art. 99). Since its implementation, the dicastery has maintained its global oversight of sainthood causes under the prefecture of Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, whose leadership extended through 2025. In preparation for the 2025 Jubilee Year, established a dedicated Commission for New Martyrs—Witnesses of the Faith within the dicastery in 2023 to highlight contemporary testimonies of Christian witness, ensuring continuity in its evangelizing mission amid heightened international attention to holiness.

Functions and Responsibilities

Oversight of beatification and canonization causes

The Dicastery for the Causes of Saints plays a central role in the Roman phase of and processes, where it rigorously examines the acts compiled during the initial diocesan to ensure their validity, theological soundness, and sufficient evidence of or martyrdom. This review involves verifying the legitimacy of testimonies from trustworthy witnesses, authenticating all documents with the bishop's seal and notarial certification, and employing theological censors to assess any writings of the candidate for conformity to and morals. The Dicastery also consults historians to evaluate the historical accuracy of the evidence, ensuring no contradictions or unsubstantiated claims undermine the cause. In the Roman phase, the oversees the of all submitted documents and materials, coordinating with appointed experts such as theologians and historians to analyze the candidate's life and reputation for holiness or martyrdom. A key element is the preparation of the Positio, a comprehensive biographical summary and scholarly summary of the evidence gathered, developed by the postulator in collaboration with a relator assigned by the ; this document is then scrutinized by theological consultors to determine if the candidate exhibited heroic virtues or suffered martyrdom. Upon positive evaluation, the forwards its judgment on the cause's merits to the Roman Pontiff for the of status or further progression. The manages administrative aspects of these causes, including adherence to timelines—such as the requirement that formal processes begin no earlier than five years after the candidate's death—and the oversight of expenses through a dedicated fund established by the petitioner to cover costs like document compilation and consultations. It applies specific norms, approved in 2016, to regulate the fund's administration, ensuring transparency and preventing any financial burdens on the while supporting the cause's advancement. Ultimately, the submits its final recommendations to the , who approves typically requiring one (except in martyrdom cases) and requiring a second. A distinctive feature of the Dicastery's oversight is its handling of causes for , where proceeds without the need for a , as the blood of the martyr serves as sufficient to their sanctity, thereby streamlining the process while maintaining rigorous evidentiary standards. This approach aligns with the Dicastery's broader mandate to facilitate the Church's recognition of exemplary witnesses to .

Verification of relics and ecclesiastical titles

The Dicastery for the Causes of Saints plays a crucial role in authenticating relics associated with blesseds and saints, ensuring their legitimacy for following the completion of or causes. Relics are classified into two primary categories: first-class relics, which consist of body parts or ashes of the blessed or , and second-class relics, which are objects that were in direct contact with them during their lifetime. These verifications occur after the core investigative phase of a , focusing on origin, authenticity, and suitability for public exposition. The process begins at the diocesan level, where the local appoints a , including medical or anatomical experts, to examine the relics scientifically and document their condition, origin, and integrity. This may involve forensic analysis to confirm the relics' human origin and connection to the individual, while avoiding any invasive procedures without prior approval. Once verified locally, the findings, including sealed minutes of the proceedings, are forwarded to the , which reviews them and issues or consents to an authentication decree if the evidence meets canonical standards. For instance, in preparations for 2025 canonizations such as those of and , the oversaw relic authentications to ensure certified remains could be venerated during events. Preservation norms require relics to be stored in sealed, secure containers within sacred spaces, with any fragmentation or transfer requiring approval to prevent commercialization or loss. In addition to relics, the determines eligibility for ecclesiastical titles, particularly the designation of "," which honors canonized saints for their exceptional contributions to Christian doctrine. This title requires three criteria: eminent learning (eminens doctrina), demonstrated through writings that have significantly influenced theological thought and remain faithful to Church teaching; a high degree of holiness (insignis sanctitas), already affirmed by ; and formal by the Church (declaratio Ecclesiae). The process involves a historical and theological review of the saint's works, coordinated with the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, which provides a votum assessing doctrinal eminence before the Causes Dicastery submits its judgment to the for final approval. A recent example is the 2025 declaration of St. John Henry as a , recognizing his profound insights on and doctrinal development. These responsibilities are outlined in the Praedicate Evangelium (2022), which assigns the authority over relic procedures (Art. 101) and Doctor titles (Art. 102), building on prior norms like the 2017 instruction on relics.

Guidance for diocesan processes

The Dicastery for the Causes of Saints plays a crucial supportive role in the diocesan phase of and causes by issuing detailed norms to ensure standardized and rigorous local inquiries. In 2007, the then-Congregation for the Causes of Saints promulgated Sanctorum Mater, an instruction that outlines procedures for diocesan or eparchial bishops conducting inquiries into the heroic virtues or martyrdom of a . This document specifies guidelines for witness interviews, requiring trustworthy individuals who are sworn to provide concrete, firsthand facts about the candidate's life and reputation for holiness. It also mandates comprehensive document collection, including all relevant writings, correspondence, and historical records from the 's life, with authenticated copies and expert evaluations to verify authenticity. Additionally, Sanctorum Mater directs the assessment of heroic virtues through theological censors who examine the candidate's writings for doctrinal orthodoxy and experts who analyze evidence of consistent, exceptional practice of theological, cardinal, and other virtues. To aid bishops in implementing these norms, the offers ongoing advice, direction, and preliminary reviews throughout the diocesan phase. Bishops must seek the Dicastery's ""—a formal declaration that no obstacles exist—before opening an inquiry, which includes verifying compliance with the five-year waiting period following the candidate's death, though this may be waived by papal dispensation. The also provides training opportunities, such as its one-semester course in on canonization procedures, primarily conducted in Italian for postulators and tribunal members involved in local processes. These resources help ensure that diocesan adhere to standards, with the Dicastery monitoring progress to maintain procedural integrity. Collaboration between the and local s emphasizes shared responsibility, with bishops initiating and funding the diocesan phase while the Dicastery approves its commencement and receives the completed acts for the subsequent Roman phase. Once the local inquiry concludes, the bishop submits the full documentation—known as the "acts"—to the Dicastery, which verifies the process's validity before advancing the cause. In recent developments as of 2025, the Dicastery has enhanced its support for global participation by endorsing the establishment of the first U.S.-based Center for Sainthood Studies at and University in , set to open in 2026. This center will offer annual certification courses in English, taught by canon lawyers from , specifically targeting non-Italian speakers to facilitate diocesan processes in English-speaking regions and streamline preparation of causes for Vatican submission.

Canonization Process

Procedure prior to 1983

Prior to 1983, the canonization process was highly centralized under the authority of the Holy See, with the Sacred Congregation of Rites—established by Pope Sixtus V in 1588—overseeing all aspects from Rome. Unlike later reforms, there was no distinct formal diocesan phase; instead, the entire procedure relied on an apostolic process conducted primarily in the Vatican, where local inquiries, if any, were submitted for rigorous central review to ensure uniformity and papal oversight. This model emphasized evidentiary thoroughness, drawing on norms codified in the 1917 Code of Canon Law, which dedicated 143 canons to the detailed examination of candidates' lives, virtues, and reported miracles. The apostolic process involved extensive historical and theological scrutiny, often through an "ordinary process" for gathering testimonies and documents, followed by sessions where the Congregation assessed the candidate's heroic virtues or martyrdom. A key figure was the Promoter of the Faith, commonly known as the , appointed by the Congregation to rigorously challenge the evidence, raise objections, and verify the canonical validity of all submissions, thereby guarding against hasty or unsubstantiated declarations. This adversarial approach ensured that only compelling proof advanced, with the Promoter scrutinizing procedures for compliance and authenticity before any recommendation reached the pope. For confessors—non-martyred candidates—beatification required proof of heroic virtues and verification of at least two attributed to their after , subjected to medical and theological examination. then demanded two additional post-beatification, totaling four, alongside continued historical scrutiny to confirm enduring sanctity. In contrast, martyrs benefited from a of holiness due to their in odium fidei (hatred of the faith), requiring papal confirmation of the martyrdom but typically fewer or no , as their blood witness was deemed sufficient evidence of virtue. The pope held ultimate authority, reserving the final decision after reviewing the Congregation's findings in a consistory, often issuing an apostolic brief to declare the canonization. Notable examples from the 17th to 19th centuries include the canonization of St. Francis de Sales in 1665 by Pope Alexander VII, recognizing his doctrinal contributions; St. Vincent de Paul in 1737 by Pope Clement XII, for his charitable works; and St. Alphonsus Liguori in 1839 by Pope Gregory XVI, honoring his moral theology. These cases exemplified the Congregation's role in processing evidence under the rigid pre-reform framework, often spanning decades due to the stringent requirements.

Procedure since 1983

The procedure for and was significantly reformed by through the Divinus Perfectionis Magister promulgated on January 25, 1983, which introduced a two-phase process aimed at greater efficiency, decentralization, and fidelity to the Church's tradition while streamlining the investigative approach. This reform shifted from a more centralized and adversarial model to one emphasizing collaborative inquiry, dividing the process into a diocesan phase under local bishops and a Roman phase overseen by the Congregation for the Causes of Saints (now the Dicastery). The norms were further aligned with the Curia's reorganization under the Praedicate Evangelium in 2022, maintaining the core structure while adapting to the Dicastery's updated role. In the diocesan phase, which begins no earlier than five years after the candidate's death unless dispensed by the , the local initiates the cause upon a from the faithful and conducts an investigation into the servant of God's life, virtues, reputation for sanctity, and any associated miracles or martyrdom. The appoints a , including a judicial , promoters, and notaries, to gather testimonies from witnesses, collect documents, and compile acts, ensuring all proceedings adhere to norms for validity. Upon completion, the issues a decree closing the inquiry and forwards the sealed acts, along with any relics or images, to the for review; this phase promotes local involvement and can be expedited in cases of urgency, such as ongoing threats to evidence. The Roman phase commences once the Dicastery validates the diocesan acts for completeness and authenticity, a step that includes verifying the tribunal's credentials and ensuring no irregularities. The then appoints a relator to prepare the Positio, a comprehensive summary of the evidence on the candidate's virtues or martyrdom, which is examined by theological consultors and the and Bishops meeting in ordinary congregation. If approved, the may decree the heroicity of virtues, conferring the title ""; for , a attributed to the candidate's is required (except for martyrs, where martyrdom itself suffices as an equivalent), verified through medical and theological scrutiny before papal approval. follows a similar process, typically requiring a second post-beatification, culminating in the 's solemn declaration authorizing universal . Key reforms under Divinus Perfectionis Magister enhanced efficiency by eliminating the mandatory role of the traditional , replacing it with a Promoter of the Faith who ensures procedural integrity without adversarial confrontation, and by reducing the evidentiary burden for martyrs, where no miracle is needed for . The process now allows for faster timelines, potentially completing in 5 to 10 years for straightforward cases, compared to decades previously, through consolidated inquiries and clearer guidelines for bishops. These changes, preserved in the 2022 updates, underscore the Dicastery's central coordination while empowering local churches.

Assessment of miracles and martyrdom

The Dicastery for the Causes of Saints rigorously evaluates alleged and martyrdom as essential evidentiary elements in the and of servants of , ensuring supernatural validation through interdisciplinary scrutiny. are defined as healings or other phenomena attributable to the candidate's that defy natural explanation, with a primary focus on medical cures that must be instantaneous, complete, and permanent. These are classified into three degrees based on their nature: resurrection from the dead (first degree), recovery from an incurable disease (second degree), and sudden healing from a serious but not necessarily incurable condition (third degree). In the assessment process, the postulator of the cause submits documentation of the alleged , including medical records, witness testimonies, and circumstances of the event, to the Dicastery for preliminary review. The case then proceeds to the Dicastery's Medical Board, composed of physicians and experts who examine the scientific inexplicability of the event, requiring approval by a qualified majority (at least five of seven or four of six members) for advancement. Following medical validation, theological consultors assess the causal link between the candidate's —evidenced by or devotion—and the , ensuring it aligns with divine intervention rather than natural or psychological factors. This process integrates into the broader norms established by Divinus Perfectionis Magister (1983), which streamlined inquiries while maintaining strict standards. Martyrdom, in contrast, serves as an alternative path to demonstrating heroic virtue, defined as the voluntary endurance of death out of odium fidei (hatred of the faith) or for virtues intrinsically connected to faith, such as charity. No miracle is required for the beatification of martyrs, as their bloodshed is deemed a supreme witness equivalent to one, though one miracle post-beatification is typically needed for canonization unless dispensed by the pope. The 2017 motu proprio Maiorem hac dilectionem expanded this category to include the "offer of life," where a servant of God freely accepts certain and untimely death in heroic charity, provided there is a direct nexus to their demise, prior exercise of Christian virtues, and a reputation for holiness—though a miracle remains required for beatification in such cases. Historically, prior to the 1983 reforms, the process demanded more miracles for non-martyrs—typically two for and two additional for —reflecting stricter evidentiary thresholds under earlier norms. The current framework allows papal waivers for the miracle requirement in , particularly for modern martyrs whose causes highlight contemporary , as seen in exceptional dispensations to affirm their amid ongoing global challenges to faith.

Leadership and Organization

Prefects (historical and current)

The Prefect of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints is a cardinal appointed by the Pope to govern the dicastery, preside over its plenary sessions and deliberations, and represent it in relations with the Holy See. The office originated with the establishment of the Sacred Congregation of Rites by Pope Sixtus V in 1588, initially focused on liturgical matters and causes of saints. This congregation handled canonization processes until its division in 1908 by Pope Pius X into separate entities for sacraments and rites, and further reconfiguration in 1969 by Pope Paul VI, which created the dedicated Congregation for the Causes of Saints. Early prefects, such as Alfonso Gesualdo (1588–1603), oversaw the initial standardization of procedures for investigating virtues and miracles. In the , following the reform, the role emphasized efficient oversight of global causes amid growing numbers of petitions. Representative prefects include Paolo Bertoli (–1973), who managed the transition to the new congregation structure; Corrado Bafile (1976–1980), who navigated post-Vatican II liturgical integrations; and Pietro Palazzini (1980–1988), whose tenure bridged the 1983 simplification of processes under Divinus Perfectionis Magister.
PrefectTenureNotable Contributions
Angelo Felici1988–1995Supervised increased international causes post-Cold War.
Alberto Bovone (pro-prefect, then prefect)1995–1998Advanced theological assessments in beatification protocols.
José Saraiva Martins1998–2008Oversaw rapid canonizations under , contributing to the acceleration of processes that resulted in over 480 saints proclaimed during that pontificate.
2008–2018Managed high-volume causes, including those of modern martyrs, under Popes Benedict XVI and Francis.
2018–2020Focused on streamlining documentation for lay saints.
Marcello Semeraro2020–present (as of November 2025)Directed prominent 2020s canonizations, such as those of and in 2025, and the conferral of the title on in November 2025, emphasizing digital-age and contemporary holiness.
Prefects appointed by , including Palazzini, Felici, Bovone, and Saraiva Martins, played pivotal roles in implementing the 1983 norms that expedited investigations, reducing timelines from decades to years and enabling a surge in canonizations to inspire contemporary faith.

Other key officials

The for the Causes of Saints relies on a cadre of key officials who support the prefect in managing the intricate processes of and . These roles encompass administrative oversight, theological scrutiny, and coordination of expert consultations, ensuring procedural integrity and doctrinal accuracy. The secretary, currently Archbishop Fabio Fabene, who has held the position since his appointment on January 18, 2021, is responsible for the daily operations of the dicastery, including coordinating administrative tasks and assisting the prefect in decision-making. The under-secretary, Bogusław Stanisław Turek of the Congregation of Saint Michael the Archangel, appointed on December 29, 2010, aids in the coordination of individual causes, handling logistical aspects such as document management and liaison with diocesan postulators. The relator general oversees the preparation of the positio, the comprehensive theological and historical summary of a candidate's life and virtues submitted for review. Father Angelo Romano has served in this capacity since January 13, 2024, succeeding Father Vincenzo Criscuolo, O.F.M. Cap., who held the role from October 10, 2008, to January 13, 2024. The relator general collaborates with theological consultors to ensure the document adheres to canonical standards. The promoter of the faith, currently Alberto Royo Mejía, evolved from the historical "" role established in 1588 to promote rigorous examination; today, this official scrutinizes testimonies and documents to maintain objectivity and prevent undue haste in declaring heroic virtues or miracles. The 's structure further incorporates specialized commissions, including medical and theological bodies that evaluate alleged and doctrinal elements, respectively; these draw on appointed experts for consultations. Postulators, typically external canon lawyers or theologians appointed by petitioners, guide individual causes from diocesan inquiry through Vatican review, submitting documentation to the dicastery. Following the 2022 Praedicate Evangelium, lay experts, including women, have been integrated into these commissions to broaden perspectives in assessments.

Recent Developments

Jubilee 2025 Commission on New Martyrs

The Jubilee 2025 Commission on New Martyrs, officially titled the "Commission of the New Martyrs – Witnesses of the Faith," was established by on July 3, 2023, within the for the Causes of Saints to prepare for the Holy Year. This initiative builds on prior historical research initiated in 2000, aiming to compile a comprehensive of contemporary Christian witnesses who have sacrificed their lives for their faith. The commission's primary purpose is to identify and document "new martyrs" from the 20th and 21st centuries, particularly those persecuted for confessing Christ, including Catholics and members of other Christian denominations to underscore the "ecumenism of blood." It focuses on individuals who died in contexts of religious persecution, such as armed conflicts, or while engaged in acts of charity, peacebuilding, or humanitarian aid, thereby encompassing both violent martyrdoms and non-violent "white martyrdoms" like those of aid workers targeted for their witness. Examples include the 21 Coptic Orthodox Christians beheaded in Libya in 2015 and Father Ragheed Ganni, an Iraqi priest killed in 2007. The effort promotes these figures as symbols of hope during the Jubilee, aligning with synodal themes of Christian unity, peace, and communal witness. Activities of the commission involve reviewing global submissions from particular Churches, religious institutes, and ecumenical partners, while reconstructing the historical and regional contexts of martyrdoms through collaboration with bishops' conferences and memory archives. Initial meetings in November 2023 outlined methodologies, including surveys of over 550 cases from 2000 onward and the development of a dedicated website for disseminating information. The commission emphasizes interdisciplinary input from historians, theologians, and experts to ensure accurate documentation without introducing new procedural norms for canonization causes. By September 2025, the commission had documented 1,624 new martyrs killed for their faith between 2000 and 2025, with the majority in (643 cases) and Asia-Oceania (357 cases). This catalogue contributes to events, such as a of the Word on September 14, 2025, honoring these witnesses and integrating their stories into the year's emphasis on hope and martyrdom as a unifying Christian treasure.

Notable activities and canonizations in 2025

In 2025, the for the Causes of Saints played a central role in advancing numerous sainthood causes amid the Jubilee Year, promulgating over 20 decrees recognizing heroic virtues, martyrdoms, miracles, and offerings of life throughout the year. These activities underscored the 's commitment to highlighting contemporary witnesses of , aligning with the Jubilee's emphasis on and evangelization. A notable early event was the March 31 promulgation of several decrees, including those attributing miracles to candidates such as Venezuelan religious sister and Papua New Guinean catechist Peter To Rot, paving the way for their canonizations later in the year. Major canonizations marked the year's highlights, beginning with the September 7 Mass in , where Pope Leo XIV elevated Blessed , the young Italian known for his devotion to the and use of technology for evangelization, and Blessed , the layman renowned for his charity and mountaineering zeal, to sainthood. This joint ceremony celebrated two 20th-century lay figures as models for youth during the . Later, on October 19—World Mission Sunday—Pope Leo XIV canonized seven new saints in another Vatican ceremony, including the first from , St. María del Carmen Rendiles Martínez (1903–1977), a foundress of the Servants of Jesus who overcame physical disabilities to serve the poor, and the first from , St. Peter To Rot (1912–1945), a married catechist martyred for defending Christian amid wartime . The other five saints were , an Italian layman who founded the Shrine of at Pompeii; Maria Troncatti, an Italian Salesian missionary in ; Vincenza Maria Poloni, an Italian foundress; , a Venezuelan physician; and Ignatius Choukrallah Maloyan, an Armenian bishop martyred during the . These canonizations, the second of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate, reached pilgrims across four continents and emphasized global diversity in holiness. Beyond canonizations, the Dicastery advanced ongoing reviews, such as the February 25 decree recognizing the "offering of life" of U.S. chaplain Emil J. Kapaun (1916–1951), a hero who died in a POW camp after heroic service, marking one of the first uses of this path established by in 2017. This declaration advanced Kapaun's cause toward , highlighting self-sacrifice in military contexts. Additionally, in June, the Dicastery supported the announcement of the first U.S. for Sainthood Studies, set to open in 2026 at St. Patrick's Seminary and University in , to provide English-language training on processes, including diocesan inquiries and documentation, commissioned by the Archdiocese of San Francisco to facilitate American causes. These initiatives reflect the Dicastery's efforts to expand accessibility and efficiency in sainthood proceedings during the .

References

  1. https://www.vatican.va/content/romancuria/en/dicasteri/dicastero-cause-santi/profilo.html
  2. https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/apost_constitutions/documents/20220319-costituzione-ap-praedicate-evangelium.html
  3. https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/csaints/documents/rc_con_csaints_pro_20051996_en.html
  4. https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2025-07/dicastery-for-the-causes-of-saints.html
  5. https://www.causesanti.va/it.html
  6. https://www.vatican.va/content/romancuria/en/dicasteri/dicastero-cause-santi/struttura.html
  7. https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2023-07/pope-francis-letter-establishment-new-commission-martyrs-witness.html
  8. https://www.causesanti.va/it/notizie/notizie-2025/comunicato-del-dicastero-delle-cause-dei-santi.html
  9. https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/02364b.htm
  10. https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/library/history-of-canonization-13746
  11. https://unamsanctamcatholicam.com/2022/05/31/canonization-in-the-early-church-653/
  12. https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?id=3631
  13. https://www.usccb.org/offices/public-affairs/saints
  14. https://www.jstor.org/stable/3678572
  15. https://oasis.library.unlv.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1460&context=lib_articles
  16. https://academic.oup.com/cornell-scholarship-online/book/24053
  17. https://theologicalstudies.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/40.1.5.pdf
  18. https://brill.com/display/book/9789004726833/9789004726833_webready_content_text.pdf
  19. https://scholar.harvard.edu/files/barro/files/saintspaper020910.pdf
  20. https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/14033a.htm
  21. https://cardinals.fiu.edu/curia.htm
  22. https://www.cultodivino.va/en/chi-siamo/storia/la-sacra-congregazione-dei-riti.html
  23. https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/13136a.htm
  24. https://www.ecatholic2000.com/cts/untitled-55.shtml
  25. https://www.catholic.com/encyclopedia/devils-advocate
  26. https://www.jgray.org/docs/Promotor_Fidei_lulu.pdf
  27. https://ewtnvatican.com/articles/greatest-canonization-in-history-march-12-1622-2291
  28. http://www.vatican.va/content/paul-vi/la/apost_constitutions/documents/hf_p-vi_apc_19690508_sacra-rituum-congregatio.html
  29. https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/csaints/documents/rc_con_csaints_doc_07021983_norme_en.html
  30. https://www.vatican.va/news_services/press/documentazione/documents/pontificato_gpii/pontificato_dati-statistici_en.html
  31. http://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_constitutions/documents/hf_jp-ii_apc_25011983_divinus-perfectionis-magister.html
  32. https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/csaints/index.htm
  33. https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/bollettino/pubblico/2025/10/24/251024c.html
  34. https://www.fides.org/en/news/73964-VATICAN_Jubilee_2025_the_Pope_establishes_the_Commission_of_the_New_Martyrs_and_Witnesses_of_the_Faith_ripe_fruits_of_the_Lord_s_vineyard
  35. https://www.causesanti.va/it/documenti/normae-servandae-english.html
  36. https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/bollettino/pubblico/2016/03/10/160310b.html
  37. https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/speeches/2024/november/documents/20241114-convegno-cause-santi.html
  38. https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/csaints/documents/rc_con_csaints_doc_20171208_istruzione-reliquie_en.html
  39. https://www.vatican.va/content/benedict-xvi/en/apost_letters/documents/hf_ben-xvi_apl_20121007_giovanni-avila.html
  40. https://ewtnvatican.com/articles/pope-newman-doctor-of-the-church
  41. https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_constitutions/documents/hf_jp-ii_apc_25011983_divinus-perfectionis-magister.html
  42. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/255846/what-is-the-process-for-canonization-a-guide-for-all-saints-day
  43. https://nwcatholic.org/news/father-richard-gribble-csc-osv-news/making-saints-how-does-the-canonization-process-work
  44. https://unamsanctamcatholicam.com/2022/09/01/canonizations-old-vs-new-comparison/
  45. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/257813/meet-the-modern-day-devil-s-advocate-in-the-process-of-canonization
  46. https://canonlawmadeeasy.com/2013/07/18/how-many-miracles-are-required-to-canonize-a-saint/
  47. http://newsaints.faithweb.com/CCS_Saints.htm
  48. https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/bollettino/pubblico/2016/09/23/160923a.html
  49. https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/csaints/documents/rc_con_csaints_doc_20070517_sanctorum-mater_en.html
  50. https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/motu_proprio/documents/papa-francesco-motu-proprio_20170711_maiorem-hac-dilectionem.html
  51. https://cardinals.fiu.edu/sapienti.htm
  52. https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/library/why-john-paul-ii-proclaimed-so-many-saints-5988
  53. https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-06/carlo-acutis-and-pier-giorgio-frassati-to-be-canonized-together.html
  54. https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2021-01/pope-francis-secretary-causes-saints-fabio-fabene.html
  55. https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/bishop/bturek.html
  56. https://www.catholicculture.org/news/headlines/index.cfm?storyid=8745
  57. https://gcatholic.org/dioceses/org/romancuria-06
  58. https://www.causesanti.va/it/documenti/regulation-of-the-postulators.html
  59. https://aleteia.org/2016/09/25/vatican-issues-stricter-procedures-for-medical-examination-of-miracles/
  60. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/249326/vatican-regulates-the-role-of-postulator-in-saints-causes
  61. https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/library/praedicate-evangelium-24079
  62. https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/letters/2023/documents/20230703-lettera-comm-nuovimartiri.html
  63. https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2023-11/new-martyrs-commission-first-phase-of-work.html
  64. https://zenit.org/2025/09/15/vatican-commission-documents-1600-martyrs-of-the-faith-in-25-years/
  65. https://www.usccb.org/news/2025/jubilee-event-honor-modern-martyrs-symbols-hope
  66. https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/bollettino/pubblico/2025/03/31/250331b.html
  67. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/267259/pope-leo-xiv-canonizes-7-new-saints-including-first-from-venezuela-and-papua-new-guinea
  68. https://adw.org/living-the-faith/evangelization/canonizations/
  69. https://www.americamagazine.org/vatican-dispatch/2025/10/19/pope-leo-canonization-seven-new-saints/
  70. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/267195/meet-the-7-saints-pope-leo-xiv-will-canonize-on-oct-19
  71. https://ewtnvatican.com/articles/pope-leo-xiv-canonizes-7-new-saints
  72. https://www.milarch.org/holy-see-decrees-the-offering-of-life-of-korean-war-hero-father-emil-j-kapaun/
  73. https://www.newsday.com/news/nation/first-us-training-center-catholic-sainthood-f89133
  74. https://sfarch.org/new-center-facilitates-the-making-of-a-saint/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
Contribute something
User Avatar
No comments yet.