The controversial canonization of St Josemaría Escrivá, feast 6/26

Background

The canonization of Fr. Josemaría Escrivá in 2002 stands as one of the most visible and debated sainthood processes of the modern Catholic Church. At its foundation, the Church canonized Fr. Escrivá because it judged that; he lived a life of heroic Christian virtue and 2 miracles occurred through his intercession. Yet there is a deeper significance. The Church recognized his spiritual message, the global devotion that followed his death, and the institutional presence of Opus Dei, the organization he founded.

At the same time, the process drew criticism for speed, political context and the involvement of Opus Dei itself; making Fr. Escrivá’s canonization both a religious milestone and a subject of ongoing historical scrutiny.

The Vatican’s primary justification for canonizing Escrivá was that he practiced virtue to a heroic degree. The Congregation for the Causes of Saints conducted an unusually extensive investigation that included:

Testimony from nearly one hundred witnesses,
thousands of pages of Escrivá’s personal writings and
multi-volume dossier documenting his life and work.

Investigation

This investigation culminated in the 1990 decree affirming his heroic virtue. Fr. Escrivá’s central teaching—that ordinary work and daily life can be paths to holiness—aligned closely with the Church’s post-Vatican II emphasis on the universal call to holiness. His spirituality offered a modern, accessible vision of sanctity that resonated with laypeople seeking to integrate faith with professional and family life.

A second essential component of canonization is the verification of miracles. Two healings were approved by the Vatican as scientifically inexplicable and attributed to Escrivá’s intercession. These included:

the sudden recovery of a Carmelite nun from multiple serious medical conditions and
the healing of a Spanish doctor from chronic radiodermatitis.

In both cases, medical boards and theological commissions concluded that the cures could not be explained by natural means. These approvals provided the canonical foundation required for beatification and later canonization. Fr. Escrivá’s cause was also propelled by widespread devotion. Within a few years of his death in 1975, thousands of people around the world reported favors received through his intercession. The Vatican received a large number of letters supporting the opening of his cause, including endorsements from:

hundreds of bishops
religious superiors
laypeople across multiple continents

This level of global enthusiasm signaled to Church authorities that Escrivá’s influence extended far beyond Opus Dei and that many Catholics viewed him as a model of holiness. Despite these factors, the canonization was not without controversy.

Controversy

Critics argued that the process moved too quickly. It took 27 years from death to canonization, while the average saint is canonized in 175 years. Claims are that Opus Dei’s influence may have shaped the outcome. Other concerns included:

the involvement of Opus Dei-affiliated medical experts (conflict of interest?)
internal disagreements among Vatican officials (why no Spanish panel members?)
questions about Escrivá’s temperament and political associations (associations with Franco?)

Summary

Although the Vatican dismissed these objections, St Josemaria Escrivá’s canonization remains significant. It affirmed a spiritual vision that continues to shape Catholic life. His emphasis on sanctifying ordinary work has redefined lay spirituality in the 20th century. Whether viewed with admiration or skepticism, Fr. Escrivá’s canonization reflects the complex intersection of faith, institutional authority, and modern religious identity. Did he glorify God? Was he holy? And, did he grow fruit, fruit that would last? The Vatican voted absolutely, yes.

In quiet corners, humble hearts found gentle guidance in his art.

He spoke of sacred, simple days, of work made holy through our ways.

With steady striving, silent strength, he walked with wisdom’s warming length.

Through daily duties, patient paths, he taught that grace in labor lasts.

Bright burden-bearers heard his call, to lift their lives with love for all.

He shaped a vision, clear and kind; where faithful focus frees the mind.

Calm courage, constant charity, marked every moment’s mental clarity.

He urged the weary, wandering soul to find in work a worthy goal.

Now countless seekers, near and far, hold dear his teachings as they are:

A quiet compass, guiding still, to gentle goodness and a steady will.

Prayer for Intercession

St. Josemaría, guide my heart toward holy work,