The death of Pope Francis has left many questions hanging in the air—from who will be the next leader of the Catholic Church to one that, although it may seem distant, is already circulating in public conversations: Will Pope Francis Become a Saint?
History suggests it’s not a crazy idea—but it also reminds us that sainthood is neither immediate nor simple. Beyond the affection and admiration millions feel for him, there are very specific steps to follow, timelines to respect, and miracles to verify.
So if you’re also wondering Will Pope Francis Become a Saint?, here’s everything you need to know about how the Church handles this sacred process.
Is It Possible? Understanding the Road to Sainthood
When we ask Will Pope Francis Become a Saint?, the short answer is yes, it’s possible—but it won’t happen overnight.
Like many things in the Vatican, the path to canonization is a long journey, full of strict rules and deep reflection.
What Needs to Happen for Pope Francis to Be Canonized?
First, let’s cover the basics: according to the Catholic Church’s regulations—more precisely, the Apostolic Constitution Divinus Perfectionis Magister (1983) and the instruction Sanctorum Mater (2007)—at least five years must pass after someone’s death before their cause for canonization can formally begin.
This waiting period isn’t arbitrary; it ensures that the person’s reputation for holiness is genuine and not just an emotional response to their passing. That means even if millions are already asking Will Pope Francis Become a Saint?, the official process can’t rush into action without observing these critical timelines.
However, exceptions exist. Pope Benedict XVI allowed the canonization process for John Paul II to begin just two months after his death in 2005. So, technically, if the next Pope feels strongly enough, they could start the process early for Francis—but so far, there’s no official word.
How Does the Vatican Decide Who Becomes a Saint?
The road to sainthood starts with declaring the deceased a “Servant of God,” which means their life is being formally investigated. After gathering testimonies, examining everything they wrote, and reflecting on their life’s virtues, they could then be declared “Venerable.”
The next critical step is beatification, requiring the confirmation of a miracle attributed to their intercession. Only after a second verified miracle can full canonization occur.
In other words, even though many are already hopeful and asking Will Pope Francis Become a Saint?, the Church needs more than public affection. It demands miracles, investigations, and lots of patience.
At the moment, no miracle has been formally attributed to Pope Francis, and no cause for canonization has been opened yet.
Will Pope Francis Become a Saint? Why It May Take Decades
The future of Pope Francis’ possible canonization depends on several elements: collecting testimonies, thoroughly documenting his life and work, and, most importantly, validating two miracles attributed to him.
So even if public opinion is loud in asking Will Pope Francis Become a Saint?, history shows it’s a long and demanding process, sometimes taking decades or even generations to complete.
How Many Popes Have Become Saints?
Out of the 266 Popes throughout history, 83 have been canonized as saints, and another 9 have been declared blessed.
Among the most well-known are John Paul II, canonized in 2014 by Francis himself, Saint Pius X, Saint John XXIII, and Saint Paul VI.
While the odds may seem promising for those wondering Will Pope Francis Become a Saint?, it’s important to remember that sainthood is never guaranteed—even for a beloved figure like Francis.
This article was originally written in Spanish by Nayely Aguilera in Cultura Colectiva.
