As Rome braces for beatification of John Paul II, postulator looks toward canonization
February 21, 2011
After the Vatican released an official schedule of events surrounding the May 1 beatification of Pope John Paul II, officials underlined that the ceremony would be open to the public without charge.
“It is very important to make as clear as possible that no tickets are needed, to attend the beatification of John Paul II,” said Msgr. Guido Marini, the master of ceremonies for papal liturgies.
The Vatican is affirming this policy despite the recognition that many hundreds of thousands of people will crowd around St. Peter’s Square for the occasion. Cardinal Jose Saraiva Martins, the retired prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, has confirmed that Church officials are expecting 2.5 million people, and possibly more.
Meanwhile the postulator for the cause of John Paul II, Msgr. Slawomir Oder, is looking beyond the beatification toward the canonization of the beloved Pontiff. Msgr. Oder has issued a call for reports on any miracles that could be attributed to the intercession of John Paul II. The confirmation of another miracle would pave the way for canonization.
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Further information:
- Master of Papal ceremonies on JPII beatification (Vatican Radio)
- Pope John Paul II postulator wants miracle reports (ANSA)
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