Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has advanced the causes of six individuals on the path to sainthood, recognizing their lives of faith, service, and sacrifice.
During a meeting at the Vatican on Monday with Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, Pope authorized the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints to publish new decrees related to these candidates.
Among them, Pope recognized the offering of life of Servant of God Ludovico Altieri, a 19th century bishop and cardinal who died in Albano Laziale, Italy.
Pope also approved the recognition of heroic virtues of five others, a step that allows them to be called Venerable.
They include Edward Joseph Flanagan, an Irish priest known for founding Boys Town and helping vulnerable children.
Also among them is Henri Caffarel, a French priest who supported Christian family life through the Teams of Our Lady movement.
Stanisława Samulowska, a Polish religious sister who later served in Guatemala, is also recognized for her virtuous life.
The list includes María Romero Algarín, a Spanish nun who dedicated her life to serving the Church.
Finally, Giuseppe Castagnetti, a layman and father, has also been recognized for living a life of strong Christian witness.
With these recognitions, the candidates move forward in the sainthood process and are now known as Venerable, bringing them one step closer to possible beatification and canonization.