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Venezuelan Catholics celebrated with Masses and processions following Pope Francis' approval of the canonization of Blessed José Gregorio Hernández. The 19th-century doctor, known for modernizing medicine in Venezuela and his dedication to serving the poor, will become the first saint from the Caribbean nation.
The decision was made during a meeting on February 24 between Pope Francis, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra. Although still hospitalized in Rome's Gemelli hospital, the pope authorized Blessed José Gregorio's transition to sainthood. The date for the canonization has yet to be announced.
In Caracas, hundreds gathered at La Candelaria church, where Blessed José Gregorio is buried. Father Gregory Lobo expressed the community's joy: "The joy that people are feeling is marvelous." He emphasized that this event should inspire people to do good regardless of their profession.
Blessed José Gregorio was born in Isnotú in 1864 and became one of Venezuela's most promising doctors after studying in Paris. Known for his strong faith and service to impoverished communities, he provided free consultations and used his skills to reach remote patients.
He died in 1919 after being hit by a car while delivering medicine to a needy woman. His beatification followed a miraculous recovery of a young girl shot during a robbery attempt. Dr. Alexander Krinitzky described her survival as medically inexplicable.
Efforts for his canonization began in the late 1940s. In 1986, he was declared "venerable," and Venezuelans petitioned St. John Paul II for his sainthood during his visit in 1996.
The Archdiocese of Caracas called this event "a recognition of the exemplary life" dedicated to alleviating suffering. Hernan Olano noted that it highlights laypeople's roles within the church: "His figure transcends religious spheres."
Devotees attribute numerous medical miracles to him beyond those recognized by the church. Fabio Moreno from Bogotá said: "I think it’s great that he will be turned into a saint...we are not just talking about a couple of miracles but thousands."
Some followers run spiritual clinics claiming communication with Hernández’s spirit; however, these practices are not endorsed by the church.
Manuel Rueda reports from Bogotá for OSV News.
