The Center for Sainthood Studies
Your Resource for Canonization
Why We Do
What We Do
The Center for Sainthood Studies was created by laypeople to address a need in the Catholic Church. The canonization process is complex and there are limited resources available to individuals to adequately learn its intricacies. Our aim is to make sainthood causes more accessible through education and providing resources to interested individuals.
We know firsthand the challenges one might face when starting a cause and how daunting it may seem. Our intention is to make sainthood causes less intimidating and encourage more people to initiate causes.
Let us be the resource your cause needs!
The Center for Sainthood Studies is Here to Support Your Sainthood Cause
1
Archival Repository
Our climate-controlled archive securely houses documents related to causes for canonization.
2
Digitization
Our team can efficiently digitize your cause’s documents and organize them in an effective and accessible cloud-based archive in accordance with canonical privacy regulations.
3
Consultation
Our experienced team is ready to support you in whatever stage you are at in your sainthood cause. Get started by contacting us
4
Certification
Our unique certificate program is for anyone interested in knowing more about the canonization process. Learn more about the program here
5
Popular Piety
As a cause moves further along it is important to keep the momentum. We can help raise awareness of your cause and assist you in promoting it worldwide.
6
Grant Writing
Many sainthood causes lose traction or fail to get underway due to a lack of funding. We can help with identifying and completing grants so that you can focus on moving your cause forward.
“It is my pleasure to introduce you to the Center for Sainthood Studies. Please join us for a historical, theological and canonical perspective on developing sainthood causes in America.”
— Most Reverend Salvatore Cordileone, Archbishop of San Francisco
FAQs
Where is the Center for Sainthood Studies located?
The Center for Sainthood Studies is located at St. Patrick’s Seminary & University in Menlo Park, California.
What kinds of resources are available through the Center for Sainthood Studies?
The Center can assist in many aspects of the canonization process, whether you are just getting started or your cause is already on its way to the Vatican. Please reach out to us to see how we might help your specific cause: Info@SainthoodCenter.com
What is the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints?
This is the official office of the Vatican that oversees causes of beatification and canonization. Learn more about the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints here
How often is the Certificate Program offered?
At this time, the certificate program is offered once a year. The next offering will be February 16-21, 2026.
Are there any prerequisites for the certificate program?
There are no prerequisites required to participate in the certificate program.
Who should participate in the certificate program?
The certificate program is open to anyone interested in the canonization process, whether you are working on a cause, looking to start a cause, or are just interested in knowing more about the subject. All are welcome: laity, clergy, and religious.
If the Certificate Program is “Sold Out,” can I still participate?
The certificate program is limited to 50 participants per session to ensure a smaller group setting and a more personalized experience. If you would like to be added to the waitlist, please send us an email: Info@SainthoodCenter.com