John Paul II: Record-breaking pontiff

Pope John Paul II will be declared “venerable” on Saturday, December 19, according to an Italian magazine story. The report—which appears likely to be accurate—would mean that the late Pontiff could be beatified as soon as the Vatican approves a miracle attributed to his influence.

According to the Italian magazine Panorama, at a consistory on December 19, Pope Benedict XVI will approve a series of decrees prepared by the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, including one that attests to the “heroic virtue” of Pope John Paul II. Such a finding would give the late Pontiff the title “venerable,” and the subsequent approval of a miracle would fulfill the only remaining requirement for his beatification.