The Cost of Canonizations: Faith, Money, and the Business of Saints

Sainthood inspires devotion, but the process involves significant financial costs that few understand.

The Business of Becoming a Saint

Canonizations are celebrated as spiritual milestones, but they require funding investigations, ceremonies, documentation, and pilgrimages. Estimates suggest costs can reach hundreds of thousands of euros.

Who Pays?

Religious orders, dioceses, or sponsors typically cover expenses. For some, this ensures that only wealthy groups can afford to promote candidates, creating inequality in who is recognized as a saint.

Criticism of Commercialization

Critics argue canonizations risk becoming commercialized, tied to tourism and merchandising. Pilgrimage sites like Fatima and Lourdes generate billions, reinforcing concerns about money shaping devotion.

Vatican’s Defense

Officials insist that costs are necessary for thorough investigations and global ceremonies. They argue the process ensures legitimacy, not privilege.

Conclusion

Canonizations blend faith with finance. To preserve credibility, the Vatican must ensure costs do not overshadow the spiritual meaning of sainthood.