The process of canonization in the Catholic Church involves several steps, each carefully designed to ensure that a candidate for sainthood has lived a life of heroic virtue and is worthy of veneration by the faithful.
1. First Stage- Servant of God: The process begins at the diocesan level, usually in the diocese where the candidate lived or died. After the candidate's death, the local bishop may initiate an investigation into their life and virtues. If there is sufficient evidence to proceed, the candidate is declared a "Servant of God."
2. Second Stage-Venerable: After thorough investigation, if the candidate is found to have lived a life of heroic virtue, the Congregation for the Causes of Saints at the Vatican may grant them the title of "Venerable." This indicates that the candidate's virtues are recognized as exemplary, but does not affirm their intercessory power or confirm that they are in heaven.
3. Third Stage-Beatification: For beatification, one miracle attributed to the intercession of the Venerable candidate is typically required (except in the case of martyrdom). The miracle must be verified through a rigorous process of investigation by medical experts and theologians. If the miracle is accepted, the Pope may declare the candidate "Blessed," allowing limited veneration in specific regions or religious communities.
4. Fourth Stage-Canonization: Canonization requires the verification of a second miracle (or one in the case of martyrdom) after beatification. Like the first miracle, the second must also undergo thorough investigation and scrutiny. Upon approval by the Vatican, the Pope may canonize the candidate as a saint, affirming their place in heaven and their ability to intercede on behalf of the faithful.
NB: It is important to note that the process of canonization is not bound by a strict timeline and can vary depending on the circumstances and complexity of each case.
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