We've heard a lot about the upcoming beatification of Pope John Paul II, the shepherd who oversaw the destruction of the faith for three decades. While I have no doubt he was personally holy, his actions during his pontificate were often baffling and imprudent. He rewarded dissenters and instituted policies (altar girls and Communion in the hand) that were rooted in disobedience. Why the rush to declare him a saint? But enough about that.
Pray for a miracle for this courageous woman who gives us an edifying example of forgiving your enemies and doing good to those who persecute you.
Sr. Maria Seiquer is an example for our time. With more Christian martyrs in the last 100 years than in any other time in history, we need her spirit of love and forgiveness. Please pray for her intercession and especially that the Lord will grant the miracle to raise her to beatitude.
I have two others to add to your list: Venerable Solanus Casey and Fr. Walter Cizsek.
ReplyDeleteI loved JPII, but as the end of his pontificate drew near and my awareness increased, I was very disappointed at his lack of governance of the Church. He was the Church's great communicator, but, personally, I would have preferred that he not be on the road so much, but instead running the Church. I too have heard much about his personal holiness and suspect it's all true. That's not the issue here.
Mary Ann, I agree with you about the canonization process. JPII also instituted a "fast-track" mentality that I think undermines the traditional prudential process of taking time to assess a candidate for sainthood. I agree that this "hurry-up" practice is unhealthy.
ReplyDeleteI wish we would go back to the 50-year rule before even considering a cause for sainthood
ReplyDeleteThank you, Mr. Kumpel. I have read about Fr. Cizsek; he was an incredibly courageous guy, and I'm sure the same can be said for his sanctity - how else could he have done what he did?
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