cult of the saints

In Christianity, the concept of saints evolved from early veneration of martyrs to a more formalized process of canonization. Initially, Christians revered martyrs as saints, believing they were directly received into heaven and could intercede for the living. By the 10th century, the Roman Catholic Church, under Pope John XV, initiated a formal procedure for canonization, requiring a life of heroic sanctity and at least two miracles.12

Saints are venerated, not worshipped, and are believed to possess special powers, making their relics significant. While the Eastern Orthodox Church also venerates saints, its canonization process is less juridical. Some Protestant churches recognize saints but do not venerate them. The veneration of saints is seen as a way to acknowledge divine power and the exemplary lives of those closely connected to the sacred, rather than idolatry.123