The Vatican’s detailed process for making a saint usually starts in the diocese where the candidate lived or died.

A postulator — essentially the cheerleader spearheading the project — gathers documentation and presents the report to the Vatican.

Panels of doctors, theologians, bishops and cardinals must certify that someone was miraculously healed by praying to the candidate. A second miracle is needed for canonization.

Martyrs, or people who were killed for their faith, can be beatified without a miracle.