London : Pope John Paul II is set for sainthood after the Vatican approved a second miracle attributed to the former pontiff. By clearing the way for the holy honour, Pope Francis has set up a remarkable dual canonisation with Pope John XXIII. In a major demonstration of his papal power, the Bishop of Rome also decided to make the much-loved John XXIII a saint. His canonisation will go ahead even though the Vatican has not confirmed a second miracle.
The Vatican said Pope Francis had the authority to dispense with the normal saint-making procedures to canonise him on his own merit without a miracle. The ceremonies are expected before the end of the year. Vatican insiders have disclosed the most likely date is December 8 the feast of the Immaculate Conception. Thousands of British and Irish people are expected to travel to Rome for the double canonisation for the popular Popes.
The late pontiff was credited with curing Floribeth Mora, a woman from the town who had a severe brain injury. Her family prayed to the popes memory and says she was cured on May 1, 2011.
Many of the faithful have fond memories of Pope John Paul IIs visits and will want to be at the service where he is made a saint. Pope John XXIII, known as the Good Pope, is seen as the reformer who gave the Church back to the people. He reigned from 1958 to 1963 and called the Second Vatican Council which brought in sweeping changes. Pope Benedict XVI put John Paul II, who became pontiff in 1978, on the fast-track for possible sainthood.
