Mind

All Christians are called to become saints. But how does the Catholic Church officially recognize a saint? On November 1, the Church celebrates All Saints’ Day, honoring all those who have attained the glory of Heaven. This includes not only the saints officially canonized by the Church, but also the countless holy men and women whose names are known to God alone. The Church’s formal process of canonization generally follows four steps: 1. Servant of God The process begins when a bishop opens an investigation into the candidate’s life, writings, and reputation for holiness. The person is then called a Servant of God. 2. Venerable After a thorough examination, the Church recognizes that the candidate practiced heroic virtue or offered their life for the faith. The Pope authorizes the declaration of Venerable. 3. Blessed (Beatification) Ordinarily, a miracle attributed to the candidate’s intercession is required for beatification. Martyrs may be beatified without a miracle. The declaration of Blessed permits public veneration in particular places or communities. 4. Saint (Canonization) Ordinarily, a second miracle occurring after beatification is required. Following the Church’s investigation and the Pope’s approval, the person is canonized and may be venerated as a saint throughout the universal Church. But canonization does not make someone a saint. It is the Church’s authoritative recognition of their holiness and their place among the blessed in Heaven. And what about those who never undergo this process? All Saints’ Day reminds us that Heaven is filled with holy souls whose names may never appear on an altar or in a liturgical calendar. The saints are not simply extraordinary figures from the distant past. They are our brothers and sisters in Christ who show us that holiness is possible in every age, every vocation, and the ordinary circumstances of daily life. The ultimate goal of the Christian life is to become a saint. We are all called to holiness, and the saints in Heaven intercede for us as we continue our pilgrimage toward eternal life. All you saints of God, pray for us!