Canonization
Canonization is the process by which the Catholic Church declares a deceased person to be a saint, meaning they are recognized as having lived an exceptionally holy life, are now in Heaven, and can be venerated by the faithful. The Church canonizes individuals to present them as models of Christian living, to acknowledge their intercessory power (meaning they can pray for those on Earth), and to allow public veneration or worship of them.
Process
The Canonization process, officially Norms to be Observed in Inquiries Made by Bishops in the Causes of Saints, outlines the rules that bishops must follow when they're investigating someone's life to see if that person should be declared a saint in the Catholic Church.
Starting the Process
When someone might be considered for sainthood, the local bishop begins the investigation. They have to look into the person's life, writings, virtues, or if they died for their faith (martyrdom).
Gathering evidence
The bishop or someone appointed by him has to collect all sorts of evidence. This includes writings by the candidate, testimonies from people who knew them, and any miracles attributed to them after their death.
Being thorough
The bishop must ensure the investigation is thorough and honest. They need to check if the person lived a life of heroic virtue or if there's evidence of martyrdom.
Sending to Rome
All the collected information, which must be very carefully documented, is sent to the Vatican. There, a special group (the Congregation for the Causes of Saints) reviews everything.
Miracles
For someone to be beatified (the step before sainthood), usually, a miracle needs to be confirmed. For sainthood itself, another miracle after beatification typically needs to be recognized. These miracles are usually healings that science can't explain.
Public and private devotion
The document also talks about how and when public worship or veneration of this person can start. Initially, it's pretty limited to ensure everything is done respectfully and accurately.
Role of the postulator
A person called a postulator acts like a case manager or lawyer for the cause, helping gather evidence and pushing the case forward in Rome.
Confidentiality and truth
Everyone involved has to keep things confidential where needed, but they also have to be completely truthful.
Decision making
Ultimately, the Pope decides if someone will be declared blessed or a saint based on these investigations.