The Catholic Church Relaxes Miracle Requirement for Sainthood
Historical Background
The Catholic Church has traditionally required two miracles for canonization, the process of declaring someone a saint. However, in recent years, there has been a shift towards a more flexible approach to this requirement.
Pope John Paul II and John XXIII: Canonization without Strict Adherence to Tradition
This shift is evident in the upcoming canonization of Pope John Paul II and Pope John XXIII. John Paul II’s second miracle was recently approved, while John XXIII will be canonized without a second miracle, a decision made by Pope Francis.
Pope Francis’s Papal Teaching
Pope Francis issued an encyclical, a formal teaching document, that paved the way for the canonization of both popes. This move suggests a departure from the traditional emphasis on miracles in the sainthood process.
Changes in the Miracle Requirement
In 1983, Pope John Paul II considered eliminating the miracle requirement altogether, but ultimately decided against it. However, he did reduce the number of required miracles from four to two. In his view, miracles served as a “divine seal” confirming the sanctity of a saint.
The Declining Prevalence of Physical Healing Miracles
Despite the traditional focus on miracles, John Paul II himself acknowledged a decline in physical healing miracles. This observation has been supported by research indicating that the vast majority of miracles used in sainthood cases today are medical in nature.
Medical Evaluation of Miracles
A panel of medical doctors evaluates miracles used in sainthood cases to ensure their validity. However, as David Zax points out in his book “The Big Round Table,” John Paul II himself expressed doubts about the reliability of physical healing miracles.
Canonizing Two Popes: A Balancing Act
Some commentators suggest that the decision to canonize John Paul II and John XXIII together is a strategic move to balance out controversial aspects of their papacies. John Paul II’s papacy was marred by sexual abuse scandals and financial mismanagement, while John XXIII lacks a second miracle. By canonizing them together, the church may be attempting to mitigate the negative perceptions associated with each individual pope.
Unprecedented Rates of Sexual Abuse and Financial Scandals
John Paul II’s papacy witnessed unprecedented rates of sexual abuse and financial scandals at the Vatican. These issues have cast a shadow over his legacy and raised questions about the church’s handling of such matters.
Impact of the Miracle Requirement on the Sainthood Process
The miracle requirement has historically been a key factor in determining sainthood. However, the recent relaxation of this requirement suggests that the church is placing less emphasis on extraordinary events and more on the overall character and impact of an individual’s life.
Papal Authority in Waiving Sainthood Requirements
Pope Francis’s decision to waive the sainthood requirement for John XXIII demonstrates his authority to modify canonical procedures. This move signals a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances and to find ways to recognize the sanctity of individuals who may not fit the traditional mold of sainthood.
Conclusion
The Catholic Church’s evolving approach to the miracle requirement reflects a shift in its understanding of sainthood. By emphasizing the overall life and impact of an individual rather than solely relying on miraculous events, the church is broadening its definition of sanctity and making it more inclusive.
