Diocesan Phase of Fr. Braga's Cause Concludes

Diocesan Phase of Fr. Charles Braga’s Cause for Beatification Concludes

(ANS - San Fernando, Philippines – June 3, 2026) – On  June 1, the archdiocese of San Fernando celebrated the closing session of the diocesan inquiry into the cause for beatification and canonization of the Servant of God Fr. Charles Braga (1889–1971), a Salesian missionary who dedicated his life to evangelization and the education of young people in China and the Philippines.

The ceremony took place in the chapel of Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, located within the complex of the archdiocesan chancery of San Fernando. Abp. Florentino G. Lavarias of San Fernando presided. The event was attended by priests, men and women religious, members of the Salesian Family, and numerous faithful, gathered to give thanks to God for the Servant of God’s witness to holiness.

During the session, the diocesan tribunal officially presented the acts of the inquiry, containing the testimonies, documentation, and evidence gathered on the life, heroic virtues, reputation for holiness, and signs of Fr. Braga. Following the declaration of authenticity of the acts and the prescribed oath by the officials of the cause, Abp. Lavarias formally declared the diocesan inquiry concluded.

Also present was Fr. Ronilo Javines, SDB, Salesian provincial of Philippines North, together with representatives of the various groups of the Salesian Family, who wished to share this significant moment for the Congregation and for the Church in the Philippines.

The postulation was represented by Fr. Gabriel Cruz, collaborator of the postulator general, Fr. Pierluigi Cameroni, SDB, who coordinated the final preparations for the concluding session. With him was Matteo Penati, who oversaw the organizational and documentary aspects of the cause.

The ceremony concluded with the sealing of the documents and their preparation for transmission to the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, where the examination of the cause will continue. With this important step, the Church entrusts to the Holy See the evaluation of the spiritual legacy of Fr. Charles Braga, whose life continues to inspire the Salesian Family and all those dedicated to the service of young people, especially the poorest and neediest.

Fr. Braga with a Chinese boys band