The newest saint canonized by the Catholic Church is Saint Maria Antonia de Paz y Figueroa, affectionately known as "Mama Antula." She was formally canonized by Pope Francis on February 11, 2024, during a ceremony in St. Peter's Basilica.
The Significance of Canonization
Canonization is the highest recognition bestowed by the Catholic Church, declaring that a deceased person lived a life of heroic virtue, is in heaven, and is worthy of public veneration by the universal Church. This rigorous process is a testament to an individual's profound faith and dedication. The stages typically involve:
- Servant of God: The initial phase where a person's cause is formally opened.
- Venerable: A declaration by the Pope recognizing the individual's heroic virtues.
- Blessed (Beatification): This step usually requires one verified miracle attributed to the candidate's intercession, unless they were martyred for their faith.
- Saint (Canonization): This final step generally requires a second verified miracle (for non-martyrs) and a formal declaration by the Pope, elevating them to sainthood.
Pope Francis has overseen numerous canonizations during his papacy, highlighting individuals who have made significant contributions to faith, charity, and societal well-being across various periods and regions.
Recent Canonizations Under Pope Francis
While Saint Maria Antonia de Paz y Figueroa is the most recent, the list of saints canonized by Pope Francis is extensive and includes figures from different eras. For example, Margherita della Metola, an Italian laywoman known for her deep spirituality and service to the poor and sick, was canonized on April 24, 2021. Her inclusion in the catalog of saints reflects the Church's ongoing recognition of holiness in diverse lives.
Below is an entry from the list of saints canonized by Pope Francis, illustrating the ongoing process:
| No. | Name | Date of Canonization |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Margherita della Metola | 24 April 2021 |
This formal recognition underscores the enduring legacy of faith and service left by individuals like Margherita della Metola, as the Church continues to present models of holiness for the faithful.
