How to Become a Saint

All of us are called to be saints, as the Second Vatican Council reminded us in its use of the term the “universal call to holiness.” Holiness is not just the duty of a few, said Mother Teresa, but of everyone.  We do this by being loving, charitable and devout in our lives no matter who we are.  And with God’s help, we can all move closer to a sanctified life.

But how do you become an “official saint” in the Catholic Church?  That is, a canonized one, one on the calendar of saints?  How do you get an “St” in front of your name?  Beliefnet asked me to outline, step-by-step, this often misunderstood process in a way that would be accessible to non-Catholics, as well as a little lighthearted.   So here’s how to become a saint in the Catholic church, with God’s help of course…from leading a holy life, to getting a postulator, to being declared a “venerable,” to interceding for a miracle (or two) all the way up to your canonization Mass.  By the way, if you really want to become a saint, prepare yourself for a long haul.  Canonization requires the patience of a saint.  Check it out here.