November 16, 2009. Cardinals and bishops of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints have gathered today at the Vatican to pave the way further for the beatification of John Paul II. They’re asking Benedict XVI to name him Venerable, the step before beatification.

The only thing that’s left is the pope’s signature that will confirm John Paul II lived a Christian virtuous life.

The next step in the beatification process is for a miracle with his intercession to be approved. The case of a French nun who was cured of Parkinson’s  has been studied and approved informally.

Though the Vatican will likely keep things under wraps for now until there is an official statement, it’s likely that the beatification take place in May or October of next year.

The event is sure to bring millions of pilgrims together in Rome.

BR/RS