In these branches of Christianity, saints are considered individuals who have lived exemplary lives of faith and have been recognized for their holiness and devotion to God. Saints are often venerated and seen as intercessors between individuals and God.
In the Catholic Church, the process of canonization is used to officially recognize someone as a saint. This involves a thorough investigation into the person’s life, writings, and miracles attributed to their intercession. Once canonized, the individual is officially declared a saint, and their feast day may be celebrated in the liturgical calendar.
In Protestant Christianity, views on saints vary. Some Protestant denominations do not emphasize the veneration of saints to the same extent as the Catholic and Orthodox traditions. Protestants typically focus on a direct relationship with God through Jesus Christ without the intercession of saints.
However, there is a wide range of beliefs and practices within Protestantism, and some denominations and individuals may still honor and remember certain figures from Christian history as exemplary examples of faith.