Vatican accepts cause for the canonization of Yusuf Bek Karam

The Vatican has announced that the cause for canonization of Yusuf Bek Karam, also known as the “Servant of God,” has been accepted. The decision, made by the Congregation for the Causes of Saints in the Vatican, clears the way for the formal process of beatification and canonization, confirming that there are no obstacles from the Holy See to proceed.

Thanksgiving masses will be held at St. George Church in Ehden, where the tomb of Karam is located alongside relics of the beatified Patriarch Istifan El Douaihy, as well as in other churches across the region. The announcement was received with joy by the Maronite Patriarchal Vicariate of Ehden-Zgharta and the Yusuf Bek Karam Foundation. A statement from the vicariate and the foundation said the news was delivered by the Patriarchal Vicar of Ehden-Zgharta, Bishop Joseph Naffaa, and the head of the Karam Foundation, Father Majd Maroun, who were present in Rome during the announcement.

Vatican Confirmation

In a letter addressed to Cardinal Bechara Boutros Al-Rahi, Patriarch of Antioch and all the East, the head of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints confirmed that nothing from the Holy See prevents the initiation of Karam’s beatification and canonization cause. The letter emphasized that the process must follow the established rules for investigations conducted by bishops in the service of sainthood causes, as outlined in the Vatican’s 1983 guidelines. The document was signed by Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, Prefect of the Congregation, and Archbishop Fabio Fabene, Secretary.

The Vatican’s acceptance of the cause marks a significant milestone in the recognition of Yusuf Bek Karam’s life and work, bringing his devotion and legacy one step closer to formal sainthood.