In a significant step in recognizing holiness within the Church, Pope Leo XIV has advanced six causes for sainthood, highlighting lives marked by deep faith, sacrifice, and service.
On March 23, 2026, at the Vatican, the Holy Father authorized decrees presented by Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints, recognizing both heroic virtue and the offering of life among several Servants of God.
Among them is Servant of God Ludovico Altieri (1805–1867), an Italian cardinal known for his pastoral dedication. Also recognized are Venerable Edward Joseph Flanagan (1886–1948), the Irish-born founder of Boys Town in the United States; Henri Caffarel (1903–1996), a French priest who founded Teams of Our Lady; Sister Stanisława Samulowska (1865–1950), a Polish religious linked to Marian devotion; María Romero (1916–1977), a Spanish-born religious missionary; and Giuseppe Castagnetti (1909–1965), an Italian layman and devoted father.
With these decrees, the candidates are now recognized as Venerable, affirming their lives of heroic virtue and fidelity to Christ. Their diverse vocations—from priesthood and consecrated life to family life—reflect the Church’s universal call to holiness. In every state of life, they bore witness to the Gospel with courage and love.
For believers, their lives stand as a powerful reminder that sanctity is not distant, but a path open to all who follow Christ with faith, perseverance, and trust.