Chaplain killed in battle 109 years ago may become a saint
The cause for canonization of Father Willie Doyle, a World War I chaplain, moves to Rome after the completion of the diocesan phase in Ireland.
TL;DR
- The canonization cause for Father Willie Doyle has entered the Roman phase at the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints.
- The diocesan phase, opened in 2022, concluded on October 18, 2026, in the Diocese of Meath, Ireland.
- This is the first time in over 40 years an Irish candidate has completed the diocesan phase in Ireland.
- Father Doyle served as a chaplain in World War I and was awarded the Military Cross for bravery.
- He died in 1917 during the Battle of Passchendaele while aiding wounded soldiers.
- His private diaries reveal intense prayer, sacrifice, and spiritual discipline.
- The current phase will focus on the 'positio,' a detailed study of his life and virtues.