John Paul II's Cause for Beatification Opens

VATICAN CITY, JUNE 28, 2005 (Zenit.org).- The diocesan phase of the cause for Pope John Paul II's beatification marked its solemn opening in the Basilica of St. John Lateran.

Cardinal Camillo Ruini, vicar for the Diocese of Rome, was present today for the opening.

After the singing of vespers on the eve of the solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul, came the establishment of the tribunal that will direct the investigation into the life of John Paul II. A petition of Monsignor Slawomir Oder, postulator of the cause, also was presented.

Next, Cardinal Ruini, the two ecclesiastical judges, the promoter of justice and the notaries that make up the tribunal, appointed by the cardinal himself, took an oath.

They committed themselves to "fulfill faithfully and diligently the charge" and to "keep secrecy on the depositions of the witnesses" involved in the cause.

A similar oath was taken by Monsignor Oder, who also committed himself "not to offend justice or to limit the freedom of the witnesses," whom he will have to question.

All those present in the cathedral of Rome were requested to "implore graces through the intercession of the Servant of God, Pope John Paul II."