“I realize you are not conversant with the terminology, but a little curiosity wouldn’t hurt.”
“If he was a saint at death, that is surely known to the Almighty but is not necessarily known to us.”
... I know the terminology. More important than me is that the Holy Bible is clear and unequivocal that all believers in Christ are saints from the moment they exercise faith in the Gospel of Grace. The closest we can get on earth to knowing they have exercised saving faith is their word and the accompanying fruit of their lives. Faith that saves is never alone.
“The process of canonization establishes whether or not this person, who so many look to as an example, truly is what he is said to be - so that we can know the answer to the question.”
... Unfortunately, nothing that transpires by committee after death, confirms someone is a saint.
... Unfortunately too, these proceedings add criteria that fly in the face of the clear teaching of the Holy Bible as to what a true saint is.
In other words, you do not believe that the Lord founded a Church or, if you do, you do not believe that He endowed it with any discernment.
Such a view is contrary to the Scriptural evidence.
Following along with freeper wideawake’s approach, it might be easier to think of this in terms of sports. There are many great athletes but not all of them are recognized. For Catholics, saints are like sports heroes in the secular world. Their stories exemplify lives turned toward Christ, despite great hardships. In the Catholic Church, the process is lengthy and must meet strict criteria, including two documented miracles. While many christians are saints, not all of them meet such criteria.
This is reveals a gross misunderstanding of Catholic doctrine. The Church does not create saints or decide who is or is not a saint. It only recognizes individuals worthy of veneration and emulation because of their lives, contributions and sacrifices. It is not an inerrant practice.
Peace be with you.
“Unfortunately too, these proceedings add criteria that fly in the face of the clear teaching of the Holy Bible as to what a true saint is”
It’s always amazed me that protestants put down all things Catholic, but still believe (and attempt to interpret)that Catholic document known as the Holy Bible.