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Source: Reuters -
Related
The canonisation process:
- Documentation is collected and examined by the bishop residing in
the area where the candidate for canonisation is born or buried.
The case is then sent to Rome.
- The case is considered by two specialist doctors who must examine
whether the recovery or healing can be explained by scientific
means, before going before a tribunal of doctors.
The medical evaluation considers:
- The diagnosis, how it was made and whether the person had an
illness. This includes testimony from medical experts and
presentation of x-rays or other tests.
- If there is evidence of any previous recovery from the
illness.
- If there is evidence that surgery or medicine did not bring about
the cure.
- Whether the cure is outside the normal medical process.
- If there is evidence the cure is complete and
permanent.
- The case is then considered from the theological perspective to
determine whether the miracle can be attributed to prayer
exclusively through a particular person (eg Mary
MacKillop).
- The case then goes before cardinals and is finally considered by
the Pope.
- If one miracle is proven a person is beatified, or recognised as
holy.
- Once a second miracle is verified a person is canonised, or named
a saint.
Source: The Sisters of St Joseph
