The Roman phase of the canonization process for Manuel Costa de los Ríos, also known as “Black Manuel” or “Negro Manuel,” has begun. Manuel was a slave who became the first servant of the Virgin of Luján in Argentina and is now one step closer to sainthood.
On 21 March, the authenticated copies of the documentation pertaining to Manuel’s canonization cause arrived at the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints in Rome. The ceremony marked the beginning of the Roman phase of the process, which will involve the evaluation and study of the documentary and testimonial evidence gathered during the diocesan phase.
If Manuel’s heroic virtues are proven, Pope Francis may declare him Venerable. For subsequent steps – beatification and canonization – verification of miracles attributed to his intercession will be required. The Archdiocese of Mercedes-Luján emphasized that Manuel’s figure is dear to the entire Argentine people, and he is a model of filial love, humility, service, and availability to his neighbor.