WRIC Richmond News and Weather - John Paul On The Fast Track To Sainthood
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ROME (AP) - Pope Benedict heard the cries of the faithful demanding immediate sainthood for Pope John Paul and he's now begun the process by waiving the normal five-year waiting period.
The pope made the announcement in Latin today during a meeting with the Roman clergy at the Basilica of St. John Lateran
Immediately after John Paul's death in April, there were calls from the faithful for his sainthood. At his funeral Mass, pilgrims held up banners saying "Santo Subito" which means "Immediate Sainthood."
The announcement came on the anniversary of the 1981 assassination attempt against John Paul in St. Peter's Square and it drew a standing ovation from the Roman priests.
Benedict, who had been sitting down, stood up to join the clergy in applauding the major tribute to his predecessor.
