St Joseph Vaz is the first Sri Lankan saint to be formally recognized by the Church. In the homily at the Mass for his canonization, Pope Francis said that St Joseph Vaz “shows us the importance of transcending religious divisions in the service of peace”.
Do you know people whose holiness, like that of St Joseph Vaz, is shown in respect for the sacredness of life, respect for the dignity and freedom of others, and loving commitment to the welfare of all?
What are some of the ways in which these qualities serve peace?
Sandie
I wonder why there was no woman available to be declared a saint in this country? Most Sri Lankan have so little status and mothers and children are treated as second class citizens. Just seems to continue to send the message that only men count and religious are more important than anyone else.
The Vaticam should be leading on this front in Asia and it isn’t.
I think the process for the official recognition of saints tends to favor the causes of those who have a religious institute or well resourced organisation supporting their recognition. It is a long and costly affair. I know that some institutes of religious women have consciously chosen not to spend time and resources in this way.
We do need to see the holiness of more lay people, especially women recognized and held up as models. Perhaps dioceses need to be encouraged to propose and fund such causes?