Pope Benedict signed another decree Saturday declaring Pope Pius XII , who died in 1958 , venerable , the Vatican said . Pope John Paul II closer to sainthood after Pope Benedict XVI signs decree recognizing late pontiff 's `` heroic virtues '' as well as his role in the Second Vatican Council and other events of significance during his papacy. Usually , process begins five years after death , Benedict OKs early start for John Paul .
Pope John Paul II closer to sainthood after Pope Benedict XVI signs decree recognizing late pontiff 's `` heroic virtues '' as well as his role in the Second Vatican Council and other events of significance during his papacy. Usually , process begins five years after death , Benedict OKs early start for John Paul .