Beatification of John Paul II. :)

What a happy Sunday it is today! Today is even more special as Pope John Paul II was officially beatified early this morning, which brings him one step closer to sainthood. :)

For those of you who do not know the steps that are taken before a person is considered a saint then let me clue you in on them.

The process must begin five years after the candidate's death. (Pope John Paul II waived this requirement in Mother Teresa's case and Pope Benedict XVI waived this in Pope John Paul II's case as well.)

Local bishops investigate the life of the candidate and the findings are sent to the Vatican.

After approval by a panel of theologians and cardinals, the pope proclaims the candidate is "venerable," meaning a role model of Roman Catholic virtues.

The next step is beatification if it is determined by the church that the candidate is responsible for a miracle after his or her death.

Finally, for the designation of saint, the church must certify proof of a second miracle. Once they approve of the miracle then the Pope must declare the person a saint by canonizing them.