Father Flanagan, Founder of Boys Town, on Path to Canonization

Catholic priest Father Edward J. Flanagan, the founder of Boys Town, may soon be declared Venerable by the Vatican, signaling the first step towards his potential canonization as a saint. Father Flanagan, an Irish-born priest, dedicated his life to rescuing homeless and impoverished children on the streets of Omaha, Nebraska. His remarkable story has been portrayed in a recent documentary called Heart of a Servant – The Father Flanagan Story. Bishop Kevin Doran of Elphin, Ireland, expressed optimism that Flanagan will soon be declared Venerable, as his case has been recognized and examined by the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Causes of Saints. Flanagan is hailed as a saint not only for his humanitarian work but also for his deep personal relationship with God. He provided these vulnerable children with not only essential skills but also a sense of faith and Christian living. Bishop Doran believes that Father Flanagan has the potential to become the patron saint of several causes, including seminarians, vulnerable children, ecumenism, migrants, and children displaced by war. Flanagan, born in County Galway in 1886, emigrated to the U.S. in 1904 and was ordained as a priest in 1912. He passed away in Germany in 1948 while carrying out his ministry. The recognition of Flanagan as Venerable would be a significant step forward on his path to possible sainthood. The Vatican will carefully examine potential miracles associated with Flanagan to support his beatification and eventual canonization. Father Flanagan’s inspiring story continues to touch the lives of many, and his legacy of compassion and service to others may soon be officially recognized by the Catholic Church.