Skip to content

The Role of the “Devil’s Advocate” in Canonizations | Insights from Monsignor Royo Mejía

Join us for an intriguing conversation with Monsignor Alberto Royo Mejía, the Promoter of the Faith at the Dicastery for Saints’ Causes, as we delve into the world of saints’ causes and the enigmatic figure of the “Devil’s Advocate.” Discover the origins and evolution of this unique role, tasked with scrutinizing the character flaws and evidence favoring canonization. Monsignor Royo Mejía shares valuable insights into the changes implemented by Pope John Paul II to streamline the canonization process, making it more historical and relevant to the modern age. Gain a deeper understanding of the importance of presenting relatable and close-at-hand examples of holiness, such as the inspiring case of Guido Schäffer, the Holy Surfer. Don’t miss this enlightening discussion on the path to sainthood and its significance for today’s youth.

Stay tuned for more thought-provoking conversations on EWTN Vatican Correspondent with Almudena Martínez-Bordiú. Subscribe now and never miss an episode!

Receive the most important news from EWTN Vatican via WhatsApp. It has become increasingly difficult to see Catholic news on social media. Subscribe to our free channel today

Share

Would you like to receive the latest updates on the Pope and the Vatican

Receive articles and updates from our EWTN Newsletter.

I agree that EWTN will keep me informed about news, faith stories and how to best support their work. You will never receive e-mails from us that you do not want to receive. You can unsubscribe any time. For more information on how to unsubscribe, our privacy practices, and how we are committed to protecting and respecting your privacy, please review our Privacy Policy.

More news related to this article

Pope Francis: ‘We must not get used to war!’

Pope Francis delivers his Regina Caeli address on May 21, 2023.
A celebration of liturgical music is the focus of the Jubilee Mass Nov. 23, 2025. | Credit: Vatican Media

Liturgical singing requires ‘a deep spiritual life,’ Pope Leo XIV says

Pope Leo XIV on Sunday praised the “precious” ministry of liturgical music and told choir members from around
Image created in Canva by Jacob Stein.

New Horizons of Humanism

The Renaissance placed a new emphasis on the extraordinary capacities of the human person: reason, creativity, craftsmanship, discovery
Pope Leo XIV meets with Algerians in the Basilica of Our Lady of Africa in Algiers, Algeria, on April 13, 2026. Credit: AIGAV Pool.

Pope Leo XIV recalls the ‘living seed’ of the martyrs of Algeria

The meeting in the Catholic Basilica of Our Lady of Africa concluded the first day of the pope’s

Actor Al Pacino meets with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican

In an unexpected visit, Hollywood actor Al Pacino was received by Pope Leo XIV on June 17 at the Vatican, according to photos shared on Instagram by Italian film producer Andrea Iervolino.

LIVE
FROM THE VATICAN

Be present live on EWTNVatican.com