Pope Benedict XVI is expected to sign a decree on Saturday that will put his predecessor , Pope John Paul II , a step closer to sainthood . John Paul expected to approve `` heroic virtues '' of Pope , declare him `` venerable '' Two confirmed miracles must be attributed to John Paul before he becomes saint . Usually , process begins Several months after death , Benedict OKs early start for John Paul II .
John Paul expected to approve `` heroic virtues '' of Pope , declare him `` venerable '' Two confirmed miracles must be attributed to John Paul before he becomes saint . Usually , process begins Several months after death , Benedict OKs early start for John Paul II .