Pope Francis today signed decrees clearing the way for the canonization of an Indian priest and an Italian religious sister. He also confirmed miracles attributed to the intercessions of an Italian bishop and a Canadian religious sister, pointing to their beatification in the near future.
Blessed Joseph Vaz, an Indian priest of the Oratory of St. Philip Neri, was founder of the Oratory of the Holy Cross of Miracles in Goa (1651-1711). Known as the “Apostle of Ceylon” on account of his evangelization of the Asian island, he was beatified by St. John Paul II in 1995.
Blessed Maria Cristina of the Immaculate Conception (nee Adelaide Brando), was the Italian foundress of the Oblation Sisters of the Holy Sacrament (1856-1906). Remembered for her zeal for God and neighbor, often she would tell her spiritual daughters: «Love of God and of neighbour are two branches that are connected to the same trunk. The love of God gives life to the love of neighbour; and this, in turn, nourishes love towards God».
Meanwhile, the Pope promulgated decrees confirming miracles attributed to the intercessions of Venerable Servant of God Pio Alberto del Corona, Italian professed priest of the Order of Preachers, bishop of San Miniato and founder of the Dominican Sisters of the Holy Spirit (1837-1912); and Venerable Servant of God Marie-Elisabeth Turgeon, Canadian foundress of the Sisters of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary (1840-1881).
The Pope approved the votes of the Ordinary Session of the Cardinal and Bishop Fathers in favour of the canonisation of Blessed Joseph Vaz, the Vatican said. He also decided that a consistory will be convoked shortly for his canonisation and that of Blessed Maria Cristina.
