Pope Francis has officially recognized six individuals for their progress on the path to sainthood. In a meeting with Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints, the Pope approved decrees recognizing:

A miracle attributed to Eliswa of the Blessed Virgin

The martyrdom of Fr. Nazareno Lanciotti

The heroic virtues of Antoni Gaudí, Fr. Peter Joseph Triest, Fr. Angelo Bughetti, and Fr. Agostino Cozzolino

Each of these people is now one step closer to being declared a saint.

Antoni Gaudí: “God’s Architect”
Antoni Gaudí, born in 1852, is best known for designing the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. He believed his artistic work was a way to glorify God and to bring people closer to Him.

On June 7, 1926, he was hit by a tram. Not recognized at first, he was taken to a hospital for the poor, where he died three days later. About 30,000 people attended his funeral.

Fr. Nazareno Lanciotti: Martyr in Brazil
Fr. Lanciotti was born in Rome on March 3, 1940, and became a priest in 1966. In 1971, he moved to Brazil as a missionary with Operation Mato Grosso. He worked closely with the poor and opposed injustices like prostitution and drug trafficking.

On February 11, 2001, two masked men attacked him in his home. He died from his injuries on February 22, at age 61.

Eliswa of the Blessed Virgin: Kerala’s First Local Congregation Founder
Born Eliswa Vakayil in Kerala, India, on October 15, 1831, she married young and became a widow shortly after. She chose a life of prayer and service to the poor.

In 1862, guided by Fr. Leopoldo Beccaro, she founded the Third Order of Discalced Carmelites, the first local religious congregation in Kerala. She has now been approved for beatification.

Fr. Peter Joseph Triest: Belgian Founder of Religious Orders
Fr. Triest was born in Brussels on August 31, 1760. He was ordained in 1786 but went into hiding during the Belgian and French Revolutions.

He founded several religious orders, including the Brothers of Charity and the Sisters of Charity of Jesus and Mary. He focused on caring for orphans and the poor. He is now recognized as Venerable.

Fr. Angelo Bughetti: Priest and Educator
Born on August 27, 1877, in Italy, Fr. Bughetti devoted his life to preaching, writing, and guiding young people, especially during a time of strong anti-religious sentiment. His work focused on developing both the Christian faith and civic responsibility of youth. He is now declared Venerable.

Fr. Agostino Cozzolino: Formator and Pastor
Fr. Cozzolino, born in Campania, Italy, on October 16, 1928, was ordained in 1952. He worked in parishes and seminaries, helping form young men for the priesthood.

In 1960, he was appointed pastor of the Basilica-Shrine of Santa Maria della Neve in Naples, where he served until his death. He is now also recognized as Venerable.