Get Certified
The next offering of the Center for Sainthood Studies Certificate Program will be January 31 - February 6, 2027 at Vallombrosa Retreat Center in Menlo Park, CA.
This intensive program guides participants through the rigorous sainthood application process and prepares them to navigate canonical procedures effectively.
Our Inaugural Certificate Program
Course Content
Theological Introduction on the Causes of Saints
Historical Introduction of Causes of Saints
Canonical Procedures:
Diocesan Phase of a Cause of Canonization (main focus)
Roman Phase of a Cause of Canonization
Miracles
Relics and Mortal Remains
Outcomes
Your participation in the certificate program will enable you to effectively begin a cause for canonization and lead you through the Diocesan phase of the canonization process.
In addition, you will receive an official certificate from the Center for Sainthood Studies, endorsed by the Archdiocese of San Francisco.
The program also provides participants with a unique networking opportunity to connect with scholars, postulators, and other experienced professionals in Sainthood Causes.
Our Team
Dr. Emanuele Spedicato
Doctor in Canon Law, Rotal Advocate, Associate Professor at Pontifical Gregorian University. Consultant at the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, Postulator for Causes of Canonization.
Dr. Waldery Hilgeman
Doctor in Canon and Civil Law, Judge at the Utrecht Tribunal, Postulator for Causes of Canonization. Consultant for religious institutes and ecclesial movements. He regularly conducts academic seminars and workshops on canon law.
Monsignor Brian Taylor
Doctor in Canon Law, Judicial Vicar for the Archdiocese of New York. His dissertation was on the role of the Bishop in Causes of Saints. Served as an official in the Dicastery for the Doctrine of Faith.
Dr. Travis Degheri - Executive Director
Doctor in Leadership Studies, archivist and historian. Experienced researcher and grant writer. Consultant for Causes of Canonization.
Program Details
When?
January 31 - February 6, 2027 (participants may check in as early as 4 PM on January 31st; welcome dinner begins at 6 PM)
Where?
Vallombrosa Center - 250 Oak Grove Ave, Menlo Park, CA 94025
What’s Included?
Registered participants for our Certificate Program will receive single occupancy accommodations with an ensuite restroom at Vallombrosa Center. Registration also includes three, freshly prepared meals a day to be enjoyed alongside program facilitators and fellow participants (please indicate any dietary restrictions when registering so we may accommodate your needs).
Participants will receive a variety of course materials including a textbook written by our program facilitators, Handbook on the Causes of Saints: The Diocesan Phase. This book is filled with templates that can be applied to one’s cause and will continue to be of use to participants well after the conclusion of the program.
Finally, there will be several, renowned guest speakers and upon completion of the program, participants will receive a signed certificate endorsed by the Archdiocese of San Francisco.
Pricing
The Certificate Program costs $2,500 and it is limited to 45 participants.