Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

It is with great joy that I inform you that the Vatican’s Congregation for Saints has approved our beloved Padre Kino to be advanced in the next step toward canonization.   On July 7th, the Congregation for Causes of Saints petitioned Pope Francis that Padre Kino be declared Venerable.  On Friday, July 10th, they received word of Pope Francis’ formal approval of their petition in recognition of Padre Kino’s life of heroic virtue.  Padre Kino is especially recognized as an extraordinary example of evangelization, science, and respect for the dignity of the poor.  Brief synopses of his life can be found at the Kino Heritage Society’s web page.

As the Venerable Padre Kino was a member of the Jesuit Order with Provincial headquarters in Trent, Italy, the Postulator for his Cause of Canonization is Rev. Pascual Cebollada, S.J., located in Trent.  However, today is a great source of joy not only for the peoples of Trent and members of the Jesuit Order but also the faithful of the Archdiocese of Hermosillo, Mexico, the Catholic peoples of Arizona, and all who recognize the holy life of Venerable Padre Kino. 

For Kino to be advanced to the next stage of the canonization process a miracle attributed to him is necessary.   The faithful are encouraged to seek his intervention in time of need. An excellent but brief synopsis of the Catholic Church’s canonization process can be found by clicking here.  

For more information see the Diocese of Tucson NEWS site.

May God bless you abundantly and may the Venerable Padre Kino intercede for us all.

In Christ Jesus,

+Edward J. Weisenburger

 Bishop of Tucson