The bishop of Rouen, Dominique Lebrun, has decided to open the process of beatification for Father Jacques Hamel, killed in July in his church by jihadists.
In this way, there will not be a five-year waiting period, as provided by law. The Vatican had communicated this move to the French diocese, who then reported it as 'exceptional.'
This exemption is the same one that was granted to other saints such as John Paul II, Mother Teresa of Calcutta and Lucia of Fatima.
From now on, Bishop Dominique Lebrun must gather factual evidence to prove that Fr. Hamel was holy. It will be easy because he was killed in an action of hatred of the faith, so he could be declared a martyr.
Communication from the Diocese of Rouen
'Pope Francis has overwhelmingly expressed the martyrdom of Fr. Jacques Hamel during a Mass on Sept. 14 that he celebrated with Msgr. Dominique Lebrun, Archbishop of Rouen, the priest's family, and pilgrims from the Diocese of Rouen.
Now, Msgr. Lebrun has been informed by the Roman Congregation for the Causes of Saints that Pope Francis has granted an exception to the five years usually required before opening a process of beatification.
Deeply appreciative to the pope for this exceptional gesture, the Archbishop of Rouen has decided to open the process during these beginning days to the church of Saint-Etienne-du-Rouvray.'
