The Oregon Faith Report - Faith News from Oregon

December 19, 2009

Pope John Paul II, a man loved and revered by millions of Catholics across the globe, may be one step closer to sainthood. Pope Benedict XVI is expected to approve the “heroic virtues” of the late Pontiff as part of a series of decrees prepared by the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, bestowing the title of “Venerable” on this beloved hero of the Catholic Church. The approval would declare that the Vatican believes John Paul lived a life of holiness, leaving him with only one hurdle left to sainthood — approval of any miracles associated with his intercession. Roman Catholics from all countries will celebrate this bestowment as so many believe John Paul deserves immediate sainthood.