Saints

Father Mateo (76776.306@compuserve.com)
06 Mar 96 01:30:08 EST

To: cinaskf@catinfo.cts.com
960215.22
> From: Ajig Alcalde <ajig@max.ph.net>
> Date: Fri, 16 Feb 1996 22:50:54 +0800 (GMT+0800)
> Subject: Saints
>
> Dear Father Mateo,
>
> What is the practical difference between a canonized Saint
> and someone who is "only" beatified. If someone is not yet
> canonized, does it mean we are not yet sure s/he is in
> heaven? In the process of canonization, when is it
> established that the candidate is indeed in heaven?
>
> Regards,
>
> Ajig

Dear Ajig,

Beatification is the next-to-last stage before canonization. By
beatification, the "Blessed" is proposed as a Christian model for the
imitation and veneration of other Christians. The Blessed is proposed
to a limited number of Christians: the members of a particular
religious order, or of a particular nation or diocese. The decree
of beatification is not an infallible exercise of the extraordinary
magisterium.

Canonization is an infallible exercise of the extraordinary
magisterium. The canonized Saint is proposed to the entire Church
for imitation and veneration in and by the publication of the decree
of canonization.

Sincerely in Christ,
Father Mateo

- Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit -

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