Canonizáció

Canonizáció is the process by which the Catholic Church officially declares a deceased person to be a saint. This means the person is recognized as having lived a life of exceptional holiness and is believed to be in heaven, able to intercede for the living. The process is rigorous and involves extensive investigation into the candidate's life, virtues, and any miracles attributed to their intercession.

Historically, canonization was initially a more informal process, often based on popular acclaim and the veneration of martyrs. Over time, the Church developed more structured procedures to ensure the sanctity of those declared saints. The modern canonization process typically begins with a formal inquiry at the diocesan level. If the candidate is found to have lived a life of heroic virtue and practiced the theological virtues of faith, hope, and charity, their cause can proceed to the Vatican.

A crucial element in the canonization process is the verification of miracles. Generally, at least two miracles attributed to the candidate's intercession after their death are required for canonization, although this number can be waived for martyrs. These miracles are scrutinized by medical and theological experts to rule out any natural explanations. Once the Congregation for the Causes of Saints deems the evidence sufficient, the candidate is declared venerable, then beatified, and finally canonized by the Pope. Canonization is a solemn declaration that the person is in glory with God and can be publicly venerated by the faithful.