Apart from the fact that we are all called to be saints and that canonization merely recognizes officially that the subject has heroically fulfilled his responsibilities in the role to which God has called him, the process of canonization is primarily intended to present the subject as one worthy of emulation by the faithful. The Vatican has announced that Pope John Paul II will be beatified (the first step to canonization) in the near future, probably on May 1st.
Several questions arise about the whole process which has been fast-tracked by dispensing with the traditional delay of several years before beginning the investigation of the candidate’s life and
sanctity. The public enthusiasm for John Paul immediately after his death has subsided except among the ultra- conservatives in the Church.
Do we really believe that John Paul II fulfilled his responsibilities as Pope in dealing with Cardinal Law, with Fr. Marcial Maciel and the Legionaries of Christ? Are we a little suspicious that the generous donations they made to the Holy See may have clouded the vision of the Holy Father?
Is the rush to bypass the usual time span inspired by fear that if delayed other facts may emerge to derail the process? This question is highlighted by the publication recently of correspondence from the Vatican to the Irish Bishops which seems to suggest that they not be completely honest with the civil authorities investigating the clerical abuse scandal there.
Or am I just being a little cynical?
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