Canonizes

Canonizes is a verb that describes the act of officially declaring someone or something to be a saint within the Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church, or other Christian traditions. This process, known as canonization, is a formal declaration that a deceased person lived a life of heroic virtue and is now in heaven, worthy of veneration by the faithful.

The procedures for canonization have varied throughout history but generally involve thorough investigation into the candidate's life, writings, and purported miracles. There must be evidence of exceptional holiness and adherence to Christian teachings. In the Catholic Church, the process involves several stages, including beatification (declaring the person "blessed") before full canonization. Miracles attributed to the intercession of the candidate are typically a crucial requirement for canonization.

Beyond its religious context, "canonizes" can also be used more broadly to mean officially approving, accepting, or recognizing something as standard, authoritative, or exemplary. For instance, a critic might canonize a particular film for its lasting impact on cinema, or a historical event might be canonized as a foundational moment for a nation. In this sense, it signifies a formal elevation to a recognized and respected status.