Beatification soon for Popes Paul VI, John Paul I?

CWN - July 12, 2012

Pope Benedict XVI could beatify two of his predecessors during the coming Year of Faith, according to the former prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints.

Cardinal José Saraiva Martins told the Italian daily Corriere delle Alpi that the causes of both Pope Paul VI and Pope John Paul I are “moving ahead,” and miracles attributed to the intercession of both Pontiffs are currently under investigation.

A full position, or dossier on the life of Pope John Paul I, was recently submitted to the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. Documentation on the cause of Pope Paul VI is already complete. If the Congregation finds that each man demonstrated “heroic virtue,” only the approval of a miracle would be necessary to fulfill the requirements for beatification.

Pope Benedict XVI has already beatified one of his predecessors, Blessed John Paul II.

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Show 4 Comments? (Hidden)Hide Comments
  • Posted by: veniteadoremus1822 - Jul. 15, 2012 12:41 PM ET USA

    Well, when a person of heroic virtue is beatified or canonized by Benedict XVI does that mean that he/she enters heaven at that moment or are these declarations that he/she is already there? Miracles can only come through a dispensation of God's grace...in heaven.

  • Posted by: jimgrum697380 - Jul. 13, 2012 7:03 PM ET USA

    Once declared. I hope I haven't missed something.

  • Posted by: veniteadoremus1822 - Jul. 13, 2012 11:47 AM ET USA

    jimgrum697380 -- worrisome "trend" or not, whatever the successor to Peter declares on earth has already been declared in heaven.

  • Posted by: jimgrum697380 - Jul. 12, 2012 10:01 PM ET USA

    There seems to be a worrisome trend here. Since the pontificate of Blessed Pope John XXIII there have been a lot of very disturbing developments in the Church. The statistics and vocations concerns are self-evident. Doctrinal and liturgical problems abound. Pope Paul VI in particular must raise at least a few eyebrows. The Church is struggling in a variety of areas with credibility problems. It is important that all things be done in the service of God and truth, and for the right reasons.

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