History of Canonization in the Church

Front

What was the process for recognizing a saint in the first five centuries of the Church?

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It was based on public acclaim or the vox populi, vox Dei (voice of the people, voice of God). There was no formal canonical process.

Front

When did the intervention of the local bishop become required for canonization?

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Beginning in the sixth century and continuing into the twelfth century.

Front

What was the role of the local bishop in the canonization process starting from the sixth century?

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The bishop would study the request from the local community, review a written biography, and if favorable, issue a decree to legitimize the liturgical cult and canonize the person.

Front

What additional step was introduced in the canonization process starting in the tenth century?

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The bishop would collect eyewitness testimony of those who knew the person and witnessed miracles, and provide a summary of the case to the Pope for approval.

Front

Who was the first documented case of papal intervention in canonization?

Back

Pope John XV on January 31, 993 for the canonization of St. Ulric.

Front

What significant change did Pope Sixtus V make in 1588 regarding canonization?

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He established the Congregation for Sacred Rites to assist the Pope with reviewing causes.

Front

What did the 1917 Code of Canon Law mandate for canonization?

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It mandated an episcopal process and an apostolic process, involving verification of reputation, collection of evidence, and investigation of miracles.

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What are the key documents that revised the canonization process in 1983?

Back

Divinus Perfectionis Magister, Normae Servandae in Inquisitionibus ab Episcopis Faciendis in Causis Sanctorum, and Sanctorum Mater (2007).

Front

What is the 'Index ac Status Causarum'?

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Published in 1988, it is considered the definitive index of all causes presented to the Congregation for the Causes of Saints since its institution.