Cause for Canonization is the initial, recognized stage in the Catholic Church's process of declaring someone a saint. It begins when a diocesan bishop receives a credible petition proposing a deceased individual for sainthood. A thorough Church investigation then follows, gathering evidence of holiness. This involves examining the candidate's life, writings, and reputation for virtue, searching for evidence of heroic virtue or martyrdom. If this investigation concludes favorably, the Pope issues a declaration affirming the existence of a "cause," allowing the process to continue. Further stages, including beatification and eventually canonization, require additional evidence and a declaration by the Pope.