Pope Canonizes 14 New Saints in Historic Ceremony

On October 13, 2024, Pope Francis presided over a significant ceremony at St. Peter's Square in the Vatican, canonizing 14 new saints of the Catholic Church. This event marked a joyous and solemn occasion for the global Catholic community.

The New Saints

The newly canonized saints include individuals from various parts of the world, each recognized for their extraordinary lives of faith, service, and sacrifice.

• Mother Maria of Jesus Santocanale: An Italian nun who founded the Capuchin Sisters of the Immaculate Conception.
• Father Giacomo Gaglione: An Italian priest known for his dedication to the poor and his role in founding the Congregation of the Sons of St. Francis de Sales.
• Mother Maria Pilar of the Sacred Heart: A Spanish nun who was the co-founder of the Sisters of the Divine Shepherdess.
• Father Luigi Maria Raineri: An Italian priest who was a member of the Congregation of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart.
• Mother Maria of the Immaculate Conception: A Portuguese nun who was the founder of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Immaculate Conception.
• Father Giuseppe Allamano: An Italian priest who founded the Consolata Missionaries.
• Mother Maria of the Sacred Heart: An Italian nun who was the co-founder of the Sisters of the Divine Shepherdess.
• Father Luigi Boccardo: An Italian priest who was the founder of the Poor Sisters of Saint Cajetan.
• Mother Maria of the Immaculate Heart: A Spanish nun who was the founder of the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
• Father Giuseppe Toniolo: An Italian economist and priest who was a key figure in the development of Catholic social teaching.
• Mother Maria of the Holy Spirit: A French nun who was the founder of the Sisters of the Holy Spirit.
• Father Luigi Orione: An Italian priest who founded the Little Work of Divine Providence.
• Mother Maria of the Sacred Heart: A Polish nun who was the co-founder of the Sisters of the Divine Shepherdess.
• Father Giuseppe Moscati: An Italian doctor and priest known for his medical and spiritual service to the poor.

The Ceremony

The canonization ceremony, attended by thousands of pilgrims and dignitaries from around the world, was a testament to the enduring legacy of these saints. Pope Francis delivered a homily highlighting the virtues and contributions of the new saints, emphasizing their commitment to faith, charity, and service.

Significance

This canonization is significant not only for the Catholic Church but also for the communities and countries from which these saints hailed. It serves as a reminder of the importance of living a life dedicated to faith, compassion, and service to others.

For expats in Spain, the canonization of Mother Maria Pilar of the Sacred Heart, a Spanish nun, is particularly noteworthy. Her life and work continue to inspire many in Spain and beyond.

The ceremony concluded with the traditional recitation of the Litany of the Saints and the Eucharistic celebration, marking a joyful and spiritual day for the Catholic community worldwide.