Pope CANONIZES Former SATANIST — Catholics OUTRAGED

St Peters Basilica dome with statues and clouds

Pope Leo XIV has canonized seven new saints including a former Satanist priest, marking an unprecedented moment that demonstrates the transformative power of Christian redemption while raising eyebrows among traditional Catholics.

Story Highlights

Former Satanist priest elevated to sainthood alongside six others in historic Vatican ceremony
First two saints from Venezuela canonized, expanding Church’s global representation
Canonization ceremony drew 70,000 attendees to St. Peter’s Square on October 19, 2025
Pope’s decision sparks debate about redemption versus traditional saint selection criteria

Historic Canonization Ceremony Draws Global Attention

Pope Leo XIV presided over an extraordinary canonization ceremony in St. Peter’s Square on October 19, 2025, elevating seven individuals to sainthood before 70,000 gathered faithful. The ceremony featured enormous portraits unfurled from St. Peter’s Basilica, creating a dramatic visual spectacle that captured worldwide attention. Among the newly canonized saints were José Gregorio Hernández and Carmen Elena Rendiles Martínez, marking the first Venezuelan saints in Catholic history.

Former Satanist Among Those Elevated to Sainthood

The most controversial canonization involved a former Satanist priest whose transformation to Christianity and subsequent holy life earned him recognition as a saint. This unprecedented decision reflects the Church’s emphasis on redemption and spiritual transformation, though it has generated significant discussion among Catholics worldwide. The inclusion demonstrates how even those with the darkest pasts can achieve sanctity through genuine conversion and devoted service to God.

Global Recognition Expands Church Diversity

The canonizations represent Pope Leo XIV’s commitment to recognizing sanctity across diverse geographical and cultural backgrounds. Venezuela’s first two saints highlight the Church’s growing emphasis on honoring spiritual contributions from Latin America and other underrepresented regions. This approach aligns with broader efforts to showcase the universal nature of Catholic faith while celebrating local traditions and devotions.

Traditional Catholics Question Selection Criteria

Some traditional Catholic observers have expressed concerns about the canonization of a former Satanist, questioning whether such backgrounds align with conventional saint selection standards. Critics argue that while redemption is central to Christian teaching, sainthood traditionally recognizes those with consistently virtuous lives rather than dramatic conversions from extreme evil. However, supporters counter that the transformation demonstrates God’s infinite mercy and the power of genuine repentance to overcome any past transgression.

Irresistible headline of the day:
Pope Leo creates seven saints — including a former satanisthttps://t.co/1o4tSDqNlH

— S Sebag Montefiore (@simonmontefiore) October 20, 2025

The canonization process requires documented miracles and thorough investigation by the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints, ensuring each candidate meets rigorous spiritual and moral standards. Pope Leo XIV’s homily emphasized these new saints as models for living faithful lives dedicated to service and spiritual growth, regardless of their diverse backgrounds and origins.