The church celebrates the saints not just because of what they did long ago, but because their example continues to be relevant for our lives today. Even if they lived 2,000 years ago, the gift of faith is timeless, and so is friendship with Jesus.

The council’s meaning is still unfolding, says visiting expert

By Kevin Birnbaum

VATICAN CITY
By Cindy Wooden

Just over five weeks before the canonizations of Blesseds John XXIII and John Paul II, Rome hotels are reporting they are almost fully booked and the Vatican has confirmed the Mass will take place in St. Peter's Square, despite knowing that hundreds of thousands of people will have to watch the ceremony on large video screens.