Scottish Sunday: No more shortcuts on Pope John Paul’s road to sainthood

No Rushing the Canonisation Process

The death of Pope John Paul II two years ago sparked a call for his immediate recognition as a saint, with millions of mourners advocating for his immediate canonisation. While Pope Benedict XVI waived the five-year waiting period typically required after a person's death to begin the canonisation process, church officials stress the importance of respecting canon law and conducting a thorough examination.

The First Phase of the Process

The first phase of Pope John Paul II's canonisation process was concluded on April 2, the second anniversary of his death, at a solemn ceremony in the Basilica of St John the Lateran. Among the attendees was Sister Marie Simon-Pierre, a French nun whose inexplicable cure from Parkinson's disease is likely to be recognised as a miracle by the church. Her cure has paved the way for John Paul's beatification.

A Miraculous Recovery

Sister Marie Simon-Pierre, who had been suffering from Parkinson's disease, claims to have been miraculously cured after praying for the intercession of Pope John Paul II. Her recovery, which has been verified and documented, has led many of the late pope's admirers to press for a rapid conclusion to the canonisation process.

A Thorough Examination

While there is widespread support for Pope John Paul II's sainthood, church officials stress the need for a thorough examination before making any decision. Archbishop Stanislao Dziwisz, the late pope's personal secretary and a leading advocate for his canonisation, has emphasised the importance of conducting the process properly and avoiding any rushed conclusions. Monsignor Slawomir Oder, the church official in charge of promoting John Paul's beatification, also underscores the significance of respecting canon law and following proper procedures.

Vocal Opponents of Canonisation

Although the majority of Catholics support the canonisation of Pope John Paul II, there are a few who question his suitability for sainthood. Some priests, theologians, and progressive Catholic organisations have expressed reservations about his actions during his pontificate. They cite his public dressing down of Ernesto Cardenal, his tolerance of authoritarian regimes in Latin America, and his handling of the clergy sexual abuse scandals as reasons for their concerns.

Awaiting the Second Miracle

In order for Pope John Paul II to progress beyond beatification, he will require a second certified miracle. Numerous miraculous cures allegedly obtained in his name have already been reported worldwide, so it is expected that fulfilling this requirement will not be a problem. Pope Benedict XVI is said to be in favour of the canonisation but also cautious about rushing the process.

In Conclusion

The road to sainthood for Pope John Paul II may not be a short one. While there is strong public support and a genuine belief in his holiness, church officials are keen on adhering to canon law and ensuring that a thorough examination is conducted. Only time will tell when Pope John Paul II will be officially recognised as a saint, but his impact on the Catholic Church and the world at large is already undeniable.

Hotels and Accommodation

In Rome, where the canonisation process is taking place, there are various hotels and accommodation options available for visitors. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, there is something to suit every traveler's needs. Some popular hotels in Rome include Hotel Hassler Roma, Rome Times Hotel, and Hotel Santa Maria. It is recommended to book accommodation in advance, as the city tends to be busy with tourists and pilgrims during significant religious events.