Explanation: Canonization is a solemn declaration by the Pope that a deceased person is a saint, meaning they are in heaven and can be venerated and invoked by the faithful. The process of canonization involves several steps, including a thorough investigation of the candidate's life, writings, and miracles attributed to their intercession.
St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta, born Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu, was a Catholic nun who dedicated her life to serving the poor and sick in India. She founded the Missionaries of Charity, a religious congregation that operates homes for people with HIV/AIDS, leprosy, and tuberculosis, as well as soup kitchens, mobile clinics, and children's and family counseling programs.
The process for Mother Teresa's canonization began shortly after her death in 1997. In 2003, Pope John Paul II beatified her, a step before canonization. The final step, canonization, was completed by Pope Francis on September 4, 2016, during a ceremony at St. Peter's Square in Vatican City. This event was significant not only for the Catholic Church but also for the global recognition of Mother Teresa's humanitarian work and her dedication to serving the poorest of the poor.
Understanding the canonization process and the specific roles of different Popes in this context is crucial for comprehending the historical and religious significance of such events. It is important to note that while St. John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI were involved in earlier stages of the process, it was Pope Francis who officially canonized Mother Teresa, making her a saint in the Catholic Church.