Amid political disputes, Venezuelans prepare for canonization of their first saints. Published Oct. 16 2025. World.

Boston, Wednesday 12th of November 2025

Blessed José Gregorio Hernández is seen in an undated photo. A Venezuelan doctor known for his medical service to the poor and deep Catholic faith, he was beatified in 2021. The doctor is to be canonized Oct. 19. (CNS photo/Courtesy of josegregorio.org)
A combination photo shows images of Blessed José Gregorio Hernández and Blessed María Carmen Elena Rendiles Martínez. As Venezuelans wait for the Oct. 19, 2025, canonization of the South American country's first saints, both the church and the government are preparing for the unprecedented event, promoting restoration works and planning the logistics of the several activities that will happen in Caracas and elsewhere. (OSV News photo/Gaby Oraa, Reuters, Catholic Press Photo)
Thousands take part in a procession Feb. 26, 2025, in Caracas, Venezuela, honoring Blessed José Gregorio Hernández, known as the "Doctor of the Poor," after Pope Francis approved his canonization. The pope, who died April 21, had approved the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints' decision on canonization Feb. 24, while he was being treated for double pneumonia at Rome's Gemelli Hospital. The doctor is to be canonized Oct. 19. (OSV News photo/Gaby Oraa, Reuters)
A woman holds a photo during a Mass at a church in Caracas, Venezuela, Feb. 25, 2025, celebrated in honor of Blessed José Gregorio Hernández, known as the "Doctor of the Poor." On Oct. 19, 2025, Pope Leo XIV will canonize Blessed José Gregorio, along with three other men and three women. (OSV News photo/Gaby Oraa, Reuters)
A woman holds a figurine during a Mass at a church in Caracas, Venezuela, Feb. 25, 2025, in honor of Blessed José Gregorio Hernández, known as the "Doctor of the Poor," after Pope Francis approved his canonization. The 88-year-old pontiff approved the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints' decision for canonization Feb. 24, while continuing treatment for double pneumonia at Rome's Gemelli Hospital. (OSV News photo/Gaby Oraa, Reuters)
Thousands of worshippers take part in a procession in Caracas, Venezuela, Feb. 26, 2025, in honor of Blessed José Gregorio Hernández, known as the "Doctor of the Poor," after Pope Francis approved his canonization Feb. 24, while continuing treatment for double pneumonia at Rome's Gemelli Hospital. (OSV News photo/Gaby Oraa, Reuters)
Thousands of worshippers take part in a procession in Caracas, Venezuela, Feb. 26, 2025, in honor of Blessed José Gregorio Hernández, known as the "Doctor of the Poor," after Pope Francis approved his canonization. The late pontiff approved the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints' decision for canonization Feb. 24, while continuing treatment for double pneumonia at Rome's Gemelli Hospital. (OSV News photo/Gaby Oraa, Reuters)