A path to sainthood
The Holy See officially confirmed the upcoming beatification of Enrique Ernesto Shaw, an Argentine businessman and layman, following Pope Francis' authorization of the corresponding decree. This announcement marks a significant milestone for the Argentine Catholic community and for the world of committed laypeople, recognizing a life of faith lived in the business and social spheres.
The miracle that drove the process
The cause for beatification advanced decisively after the verification of a miracle attributed to Shaw's intercession. The case dates back to a serious accident suffered by a six-year-old boy, who was kicked by a horse, causing severe head trauma. In critical condition and after being airlifted to receive specialized care, the child's parents, who were members of the Christian Association of Business Leaders (ACDE) founded by Shaw, turned to prayer, asking for his intercession.
Against all medical odds, the child made a rapid and complete recovery, with no apparent sequelae, a fact that doctors were unable to explain scientifically. The Congregation for the Causes of Saints, after a rigorous examination, recognized this event as a miracle, considering it a divine sign that allowed Shaw to advance on the path to sainthood.
A legacy of faith and social commitment
Enrique Shaw, born in Paris in 1921 and died in Buenos Aires in 1962, was known as "God's businessman." His vision integrated faith, business, and social responsibility. In 1952, he founded the ACDE, from where he promoted a doctrine that placed business as a central agent for the construction of a more just society, inseparable from its commitment to the common good.
As director of Cristalerías Rigolleau, he was actively concerned with the welfare of more than 3,000 workers and their families, promoted environmental protection as an ethical obligation, and contributed to the development of public policies, such as the family allowance law. His thinking, expressed in lectures and writings, remains remarkably relevant today.
An exemplary family and spiritual life
Married to Cecilia Bunge in 1943, Shaw formed a large family with nine children. He was a layman deeply committed to Catholic Action and the Christian Family Movement. Even after being diagnosed with cancer in 1957, he faced the disease with "Christian serenity," without abandoning his intellectual activity or his public witness. His cause for canonization, initiated shortly after his death, had the decisive support of then-Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio, who formally requested the opening of the process in 2001.
Original source: www.lanacion.com.ar (published December 18, 2025)
Photo: Klara Kulikova on Unsplash
