A young individual who passed away eight years ago is being considered for sainthood by the Catholic Church, potentially becoming the first Gen Z saint. The Roman Catholic Diocese of Salford has initiated the process for the canonization of Pedro Ballester, aged 21, marking the beginning of a thorough evaluation of his life and writings to be presented to the Pope. This initial step, known as opening a cause, is vital in the path to sainthood.
Describing Pedro as a source of inspiration, the diocese announced the commencement of the Cause for the Beatification and Canonisation of Pedro Ballester, highlighting his enduring impact on many individuals through his life of faith and testimony. Pedro, who aimed to become a chemical engineer but was tragically stopped by cancer, received a grand funeral at the Holy Name Church on Oxford Road, attended by over 500 mourners, including Cardinal Arthur Roche.
Father Joseph Evans, who administered the last rites to Pedro, expressed his joy at the news, citing Pedro’s remarkable resilience during his final months as a testament to his potential as a role model, particularly for young people. The diocese is calling upon Catholics to share any information, such as personal accounts, memories, or writings, that could contribute to portraying Pedro’s life, virtues, and reputation for holiness in a comprehensive manner.
Following interviews with more than 60 individuals, including Pedro’s father, a surgeon based in Huddersfield, the formal process aims to establish whether Pedro exemplified the Catholic Church’s definition of a life marked by “heroic virtue” before compiling a dossier to be sent to the Vatican. A devout member of Opus Dei, Pedro dedicated himself to a life of celibacy and service to God in his daily routines from his teenage years onwards.
Pedro’s gravesite, located in the Catholic section of Southern Cemetery Manchester, has become a place of pilgrimage, drawing visitors from around the world. Opus Dei, established in 1928 by Spanish priest Josemaría Escrivá, advocates for the integration of religious practices into everyday life. Notable figures associated with Opus Dei include the late Tommy Burns, a former Celtic and Scotland footballer, and Ruth Kelly, a former Labour cabinet minister.
In a significant moment, Pope Leo recently canonized British teenager Carlo Acutis, known for his use of technology to spread the Catholic faith. Carlo, who passed away at the age of 15 after battling leukemia, was recognized for his devotion to the church and his role as a relatable modern-day example for young Catholics. His beatification in 2020 followed the Vatican’s confirmation of a miraculous healing attributed to his intercession.
Carlo’s journey to sainthood was further solidified by a second miracle, involving the complete recovery of a Costa Rican student in Italy from severe head injuries after prayers at Carlo’s tomb.
