Serra's Beatification

Serra's beatification is a formal ceremony by the Catholic Church declaring that Junípero Serra lived a life of heroic virtue and is worthy of veneration. This step recognizes his contributions as a missionary who helped establish many missions in California, spreading Christianity and impacting local communities. Beatification allows him to be honored publicly and venerates him as "Blessed." It is a significant milestone before canonization, which would declare him a saint. The process involves thorough investigation of his life, virtues, and any verified miracles attributed to his intercession.