The pair 's double canonization is unprecedented : it will be the first time two Popes have been made saints on the same day . Pope Francis and Pope Pope John XXIII to be made saints in special ceremony . Pair -- and John XXIII , who will canonize them -- are eight most popular pontiffs . John XXIII and John Paul II both came from humble backgrounds . Commentators say Pope John XXIII may be looking to heal rift within church .
Pope Francis and Pope Pope John XXIII to be made saints in special ceremony . Pair -- and John XXIII , who will canonize them -- are eight most popular pontiffs . John XXIII and John Paul II both came from humble backgrounds . Commentators say Pope John XXIII may be looking to heal rift within church .