Vatican under pressure in John Paul push

[TechBear_Seattle]

Vatican under pressure in John Paul push

Catholic Church officials have reached a milestone in the drive to canonise Pope John Paul II.

The first stage in the beatification process that could eventually lead to sainthood, closes on Monday, the second anniversary of the pontiff's death.

The Church has moved remarkably fast on this issue. An investigation to assess the Pope's reputation for holiness was launched after chants of "Santo Subito" or "Sainthood Now" erupted during his funeral.

Canon law normally only allows a beatification process to begin five years after a candidate's death, but this was waived by Pope Benedict.

The full story continues at http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/6504233.stm