Gradually a set of procedures were developed to spare the church the potential embarrassment of false claims. These early procedures included applying to the bishop with an autobiography of the nominee. About the year 1000, people started seeking the Pope's authority rather than just their area bishop in these matters. Over the years, procedures for canonization of Saints have become more complex. The first step now towards Sainthood is beatification.
Beatification means that permission is granted for local honor to be given to a person.
Then churches can be named after them, also. Read more about the canonization of saints . To learn more about Catholicism at an Irishman's site visit Irishchico's Home Page. For more about Ireland visit the Ireland Mega - Links Cultural Page . At this beautiful site, you'll find Irish Christian history, Celtic and Gaelic culture, the Book of Kells, monasteries, cathedrals, Saints, music, myths, proverbs and travel.