How To Become a Saint 

Contrary to popular belief, saints weren’t altogether perfect people during their lifetimes—but it’s not good works alone that garner you a spot next to Francis of Assisi.

Step 1: Die

Die. The Vatican usually requires a five-year waiting period after a person’s death even to begin the process toward sainthood. Even after death, you’ve got your work cut out for you.

Step 2: "Cause" initiated

After five years, what is known as a “cause” may be initiated with the individual’s local bishop and then with the Vatican’s Congregation for Sainthood Causes.

Step 3: Postulator leads investigation

A postulator will lead the cause and serve in charge of the investigation of the deceased’s virtue and miracles attributed to him or her.

Step 4: Pope deems candidate "venerable"

If the pope recognizes the candidate as having heroic virtues, the pope may deem him or her “Venerable,” the first step toward sainthood.

Step 5: Two miracles required

In general, the verification of two miracles attributed to the intercession of the candidate is required for canonization.

Step 6: Pope beatifies candidate

After one miracle, the pope may beatify the candidate, the second step toward sainthood. The candidate is then called “Blessed.”

Step 7: Vatican verifies second miracle

If the Vatican verifies an additional miracle, canonization may follow.

Step 8: Intercede with God

Should you make it to sainthood, expect to be very busy for subsequent millennia. Catholics pray that saints intercede with God on their behalf. That’s running some heavy interference.