Pope Advances Antoni Gaudí's Cause for Sainthood

Pope Francis has declared Antoni Gaudí, renowned for his extraordinary design of the Sagrada Familia basilica, "venerable," marking a significant milestone towards his potential canonization as a saint.

The Vatican has officially recognized Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí as "venerable," an early indication of his potential path toward sainthood as confirmed by Pope Francis. Gaudí, who is often referred to as "God's architect," is celebrated for his creation of the iconic Sagrada Familia basilica in Barcelona, a masterpiece that remains unfinished but attracts millions of visitors yearly. The announcement was made in a statement on Monday, following a long-standing campaign advocating for Gaudí's canonization, reflecting his deep Catholic faith.

Cardinal Juan Jose Omella, the Archbishop of Barcelona, expressed elation at the Vatican's recognition, emphasizing that Gaudí's legacy transcends mere architecture and serves as a beacon of hope amid life's challenges. He stated, "We are destined to be saints," reinforcing the belief in the divine connection inherent in Gaudí's life and work.

To officially become a saint, Gaudí's next phase would typically entail beatification, which requires confirmation of miracles associated with him postpartum, as per Catholic canon law. This essential step could take time, especially given the Vatican's meticulous procedure for recognizing saints, usually limited to martyrs or those with a saintly reputation who have demonstrated heroic virtues.

Born in 1852, Gaudí's designs, many of which are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites, continue to be admired around the globe. Notably, the Sagrada Familia, which began construction in 1883, was consecrated by Pope Benedict XVI in 2010 and remains an enduring symbol of faith and artistry in Barcelona, further solidifying Gaudí's impact on both architecture and religious devotion.