beatifications

Beatification is a formal declaration by the Roman Catholic Church that a deceased person, after having been recognized as having lived a life of exemplary holiness and virtue, can be venerated publicly. It is a step in the process of canonization, which is the declaration of sainthood. The process of beatification involves a rigorous investigation into the life and writings of the candidate, as well as an examination of any posthumous miracles attributed to their intercession. These miracles must be proven through scientific and theological scrutiny. Once a person is beatified, they are given a specific title, such as "Blessed," and are allowed to be venerated within a particular church, diocese, or order. Their liturgical feast day may also be established. Beatification is not the same as canonization; it is a recognition of heroic virtue and potential sanctity, but canonization, which confers sainthood, is a more definitive and universal declaration. The process is overseen by the Congregation for the Causes of Saints in the Vatican.