The Archbishopric of Santa Fe de la Vera Cruz has officially begun the cause for the beatification and canonization of Cecilia María de la Santa Faz, popularly known as the ‘Carmelite of the Smile’. The nun, who died in 2016 at the age of 42, is remembered for her deep faith and unwavering joy, even while battling tongue cancer. The formal opening of the process will take place next Sunday, February 23, at 9 a.m. at the San José and Santa Teresa Convent of the Discalced Carmelites in the city of Santa Fe.
Monsignor Sergio Fenoy, Archbishop of Santa Fe, has appointed those responsible for conducting the initial investigation, which aims to gather testimonies and evidence about the life and virtues of Cecilia María. This diocesan phase is fundamental in determining whether the nun can be declared venerable. According to Father Andrés Rodríguez, spokesperson for the Archbishopric, beatification will require proof of a miracle attributed to her intercession, while a second miracle will be necessary for canonization.
Cecilia María Sánchez Sorondo was born in San Martín de los Andes, Neuquén, and dedicated two decades of her life to the monastery of the Discalced Carmelites in Santa Fe. Her charisma and unwavering faith left an indelible mark on those who knew her. A photograph taken during her final days, in which she appears smiling despite her illness, went viral and became a symbol of hope and faith for many people.
The canonization process in the Catholic Church distinguishes between popular devotion, testimony of life, attribution of graces or miracles, and official recognition. In this case, the opening of the cause is a formal step that recognizes Cecilia María’s fame of holiness, but does not yet imply an official declaration by the Church. The diocesan investigation will collect documents and testimonies that will be sent to Rome for evaluation.
Context and Relevance
Cecilia María’s cause is part of the growing interest in contemporary figures of holiness, such as Blessed Carlo Acutis, although there is no evidence of a direct relationship between them. Eucharistic spirituality and joy in suffering are traits shared by many modern saints, but each cause is evaluated independently. The ‘Carmelite of the Smile’ is seen as a model of hope for the sick and for those seeking meaning in pain.
Father Rodríguez expressed: ‘It is a long process, but it represents great news for Santa Fe and for all of Argentina.’ Although no formal miracle has yet been recorded, numerous faithful say that her life was an inspiration that helped them overcome difficult moments. The local Catholic community hopes that this process, which could last years, will culminate in the recognition of her heroic virtues.
Original source: 11noticias.com (published on July 23, 2026)
