Having heard the conclusions of the study of the theological reasons for the rites of Beatification and Canonization and their pastoral requirements, and after receiving the approval of the Holy Father Benedict XVI, this Congregation for the Causes of Saints informs [the faithful] of the following new measures: 

1. While it should be understood that the Holy Father will preside at a Canonization, which attributes the devotion of the whole Church to the Blessed, a Beatification, nonetheless a Pontifical act, will be celebrated by a representative of the Holy Father who will normally be the Prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints.

2. The rite of Beatification will take place in the Diocese that has promoted the Cause of the new Blessed, or in any other place deemed suitable.

3. At the request of the Bishops and Promoters of the Cause, after having heard the opinion of the Secretariat of State, the rite of Beatification may take place in Rome.

4. Lastly, the same rite will take place during the Eucharistic celebration unless special liturgical reasons suggest that it take place during the celebration of the Word or of the Liturgy of the Hours.

Vatican City, 29 September 2005

Cardinal José Saraiva Martins, C.M.F.
Prefect

Archbishop Edward Nowak
Secretary