The Postulation Office
The postulation office of is responsible for overseeing the process of canonization and beatification of members of the community. This office works to advance the cause of a candidate for sainthood by gathering evidence of their holiness, virtues, and any miracles attributed to their intercession.
Key responsibilities include:
- Research and Documentation: Collecting testimonies, writings, and historical records related to the candidate’s life.
- Collaboration with Church Authorities: Working closely with diocesan officials and the Vatican’s Congregation for the Causes of Saints.
- Promoting Devotion: Encouraging prayers and public awareness of the candidate’s spiritual legacy.
- Verification of Miracles: Investigating potential miraculous occurrences linked to the candidate.
- Legal and Theological Analysis: Ensuring the cause meets all ecclesiastical requirements.
This meticulous process can take years or even centuries, but the postulation office remains committed to preserving the memory and spiritual impact of the candidate.
The Path to Sainthood
The path to sainthood in the Catholic Church is a structured and thorough process overseen by the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. Here are the key steps:
- Servant of God – The process begins when a candidate’s cause is introduced by a diocese or religious institute. A postulator is appointed to gather evidence of the person’s holiness and virtue.
- Venerable – After an extensive review of the candidate’s life, writings, and virtues, the Pope may declare them Venerable, meaning they lived a life of heroic virtue.
- Beatification (Blessed) – To be beatified, one miracle attributed to the candidate’s intercession must be verified (unless they are a martyr, in which case a miracle is not required). The Pope then formally declares them Blessed, allowing limited public veneration.
- Canonization (Saint) – After beatification, a second verified miracle is required. Once confirmed, the Pope officially proclaims the person a Saint, permitting universal veneration in the Church.
Our Saints
Saint Gaspar del Bufalo (1786–1837)
Saint Gaspar del Bufalo was an Italian priest and missionary known for his deep devotion to the Precious Blood of Christ and his commitment to evangelization. He was born on January 6, 1786, in Rome, Italy, to Antonio and Annunziata del Bufalo. From an early age, Gaspar demonstrated strong faith and an eagerness to serve God. Despite suffering from serious illnesses during childhood, he grew into a passionate preacher and missionary.
Ordained a priest in 1808, Gaspar soon encountered challenges when Rome was occupied by Napoleonic forces. In 1810, he was imprisoned for refusing to pledge allegiance to Napoleon, as his loyalty was to the Pope and the Church. His time in prison strengthened his resolve to dedicate his life to spreading God’s word.
After his release in 1814, Gaspar founded the Missionaries of the Precious Blood, a congregation devoted to preaching and spiritual renewal through the power of Christ’s blood. He tirelessly traveled across Italy, conducting missions to inspire repentance and conversion, particularly in rural communities suffering from moral and social decline. His fiery sermons and compassionate outreach attracted many followers.
Gaspar also worked to rehabilitate criminals, alleviate poverty, and promote devotion to the Eucharist. His efforts earned him admiration, but also opposition from those who resisted spiritual reforms. Despite hardships, he remained steadfast, embodying his belief in the transformative power of Christ’s blood.
On December 28, 1837, Gaspar del Bufalo passed away after suffering from illness. His legacy continued through the Missionaries of the Precious Blood, which expanded beyond Italy and influenced generations of clergy and laypeople. Pope Pius XII canonized him on June 12, 1954, recognizing his remarkable dedication to evangelization and the renewal of faith.
Saint Gaspar remains an enduring symbol of missionary zeal, selfless service, and unwavering faith in God’s mercy. His life reminds Christians of the power of Christ’s blood to bring healing and redemption to the world.
Blessed Giovanni Merlini (1795–1873)
Blessed Giovanni Merlini was an Italian priest known for his devotion to the Precious Blood of Christ and his leadership within the Missionaries of the Precious Blood. He was born on August 28, 1795, in Spoleto, Italy. From an early age, he showed a deep faith and desire to serve the Church.
In 1817, Merlini was ordained a priest and soon encountered the Missionaries of the Precious Blood, founded by Saint Gaspar del Bufalo. He was deeply inspired by their mission of evangelization and spiritual renewal, leading him to join the congregation. His dedication quickly made him one of its most influential members.
Following the death of Saint Gaspar in 1837, Merlini took on significant leadership roles within the congregation. He served as its third Moderator General and worked tirelessly to expand its influence, strengthen its spiritual foundations, and promote devotion to the Precious Blood. His leadership was marked by humility, wisdom, and a profound commitment to spreading the Gospel.
Merlini was also a trusted advisor to Pope Pius IX, offering spiritual guidance and advocating for the official recognition of the Feast of the Precious Blood. His efforts contributed to its establishment in 1849, further emphasizing the importance of Christ’s sacrifice for humanity.
On January 12, 1873, Merlini passed away, leaving behind a legacy of faith and service. His cause for beatification began in the 1880s, and in 1973, Pope Paul VI declared him Venerable, recognizing his heroic virtues. After decades of devotion to his cause, Merlini was officially beatified on January 12, 2025, at the Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran in Rome.
Merlini’s life remains an inspiration for those devoted to the Precious Blood and the call to missionary work. His example of faith, leadership, and humility continues to resonate with believers around the world.
Contact Us
Please contact our office to request prayer intentions or a relic of one of our saints.
Donations can be made to our office to the following bank account:
MISSIONARI DEL PREZ.MO SANGUE
Account: 000003760769
IBAN: IT64M0301503200000003760769
FinecoBank S.p.A.
Address: Piazza Durante 11 – 20131 Milan
BIC SEPA: FEBIITM1
For Euro transfers from banks participating in the SEPA circuit or SEPA direct debit debits
SWIFT: FEBIITM2
For foreign currency or Euro transfers from non-Sepa countries