In 1999, the pope did waive the five-year rule, allowing the canonization process to begin. The information uncovered by the bishop is sent to the Vatican. A panel of theologians and the cardinals of the Congregation for Cause of Saints evaluate the candidate's life. If the panel approves, the pope proclaims that the candidate is venerable, which means that the person is a role model of Catholic virtues. The next step toward sainthood is beatification .
Beatification allows a person to be honored by a particular group or region.
In order to beatify a candidate, it must be shown that the person is responsible for a posthumous miracle. Martyrs, those who died for their religious cause, can be beatified without evidence of a miracle. In order for the candidate to be considered a saint, there must be proof of a second posthumous miracle. If there is, the person is canonized. These alleged miracles must be submitted to the Vatican for verification.