(Los Angeles, CA 03-10-13) Two weeks ago Archbishop Jose Gomez disclosed that the Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles "lacks funds and canon law experts for a sainthood cause." While disappointing, this admission by the Archdiocese did not prevent a group called The Friends of Father Aloysius to "take up the torch" for the lengthy and costly process of canonization.
"I'm sorry to hear there are no local experts in sainthood causes. This is what the Church is all about, to help us become saints. At least now we have clarity," reports Fr. Kevin Manion. He personally knew Fr. Aloysius and for years acted as his personal secretary. "We need holy priests, and it is vital to publicly recognize examples of heroic virtue and holiness." Fr. Manion added, "The fact that the Archdiocese of Los Angeles doesn't have resources or experience in these matters helps The Friends of Father Aloysius reorganize our efforts."
Consequently, the ongoing petition for the canonization of Fr. Aloysius is developing new momentum. Fr. Aloysius Ellacuria, CMF, was a well known Claretian Missionary who served in the Los Angeles Archdiocese for many years until his death in 1981. His life and ministry have inspired books and a push for his official recognition as a saint within the Catholic Church. See California Catholic Daily.
"The association of The Friends of Father Aloysius has decided to go ahead with plans to promote a cause of sainthood for Fr. Aloysius Ellacuria, CMF," according to Heather Gallagher, a member of the group. "We've just finished the process of vetting who is going to be the promoter of the cause" according to Ms. Gallagher. "Two years ago, we presented a petition to Archbishop Jose Gomez. After study and prayer the Archbishop forwarded the petition to the superior of the Claretian Missionaries in Chicago. They sent it to Rome and then it came back to Los Angeles. Recently Archbishop Gomez told a supporter, Jeff Moynihan, the Archdiocese lacks resources and canon law experts in causes of sainthood. While disappointing, this is actually positive news," according to Heather Gallagher. "The Friends of Father Aloysius can now promote freely and with the Church's blessing a cause of sainthood for Father Aloysius." (See recent Catholic News Agency article)