When the subject arises that a person should be considered for Sainthood, a Bishop is placed in charge of the initial investigation of the person’s life. If it is determined that the candidate is deemed worthy of consideration, the Vatican grants a “Nihil Obstat.” This is a Latin phrase meaning “nothing hinders.” The candidate is then called a “Servant of God.”

The Church official, a Postulator, who coordinates the process and serves as an advocate, must prove that the candidate lived heroic virtues. This is achieved through a collection of documents and testimonies that are collected in a Positio. It is then presented to the Congregation for the Causes of Saints in Rome. When a candidate is approved, he/she receives the title “Venerable.”

To be beatified and recognized as a “Blessed,”requires one miracle to be acquired through the candidate’s intercession in addition to recognition of heroic virtue.

Canonization requires a second miracle after Beatification, though a Pope may waive these requirements. Once the second miracle has been received through the candidates intercession the Pope declares the person a “Saint.”