When you hear someone called a saint, you might wonder what went into that title. In the Catholic Church, canonization is the official process of declaring a person a saint. It isn’t just a fancy label – it means the Church believes the person lived a holy life and can intercede for us today.
The journey starts with a local bishop opening an investigation into the candidate’s life. This stage is called the “diocesan phase.” The bishop gathers testimonies, writings, and any miracles linked to the person. Once enough evidence is collected, the case moves to Rome.
In Vatican City, a group of experts called the Congregation for the Causes of Saints reviews everything. They look for clear signs of heroic virtue – things like courage, charity, and deep faith. If they’re satisfied, the Pope may declare the person “Venerable.” From there, one verified miracle is usually required for beatification, which grants the title "Blessed." A second miracle paves the way for full canonization.
Canonized saints become role models for believers around the world. Their stories often inspire people to volunteer, pray, or stand up for justice. In South Africa and across Africa, local saints highlight cultural diversity within the global Church, showing that holiness isn’t limited by geography.
For students and fresh graduates looking at internships in faith‑based NGOs, understanding canonization can be a plus. Many organizations value the moral examples set by saints when shaping their mission statements or community projects. Knowing these stories helps you connect with local values and speak the same language as your future teammates.
Even if you’re not religious, the canonization process offers a fascinating glimpse into how institutions verify extraordinary claims. It blends history, science (through miracle investigations), and storytelling in a way that can teach us about credibility and tradition.
So, whether you’re curious about church history, searching for inspiration, or preparing for a career in an organization rooted in faith, canonization is more than a ceremony – it’s a roadmap of what many consider a life well‑lived.
Pope Francis has acknowledged a second miracle attributed to Blessed Carlo Acutis, moving him closer to being canonized as the Catholic Church’s first 'millennial' saint. Born in 1991, Acutis had a profound faith in the Eucharist and utilized technology to spread his beliefs before passing away from leukemia at age 15. His canonization will be set alongside other future saints.