The Archbishop will be officially requesting the Vatican to embark on the process for the beatification of Mgr Mikiel Azzopardi, who founded the Dar tal-Providenza in Siggiewi 50 years ago.

Yesterday, Mass was said at the home to commemorate the death of Mgr Azzopardi on May 13, 1987 and Archbishop Charles Scicluna blessed a new yard at the home.

During an address, Mgr Scicluna, asked the director of the home, Fr Martin Micallef, to write to him so he could make an official request to the Vatican to embark on the beatification process.

Fr Martin told Times of Malta that over the years, he had received various reports of miracles taking place through the intercession of Mgr Azzopardi and he would now go through these reports so that they could be further investigated.

The initial investigations into whether a person should be considered for sainthood are started by a bishop and if it is determined that the candidate is deemed worthy of further consideration, the postulator has to prove that the candidate lived heroic virtues.

When a candidate is approved, he earns the title of venerable.

To be beatified, one miracle acquired through the candidate’s intercession is required.

Canonisation requires a second miracle after beatification, through a Pope may waive these requirements.