Pope Benedict XVI has beatified Pope John Paul II before the faithful in St Peter’s Square and surrounding streets, moving the beloved former pontiff one step closer to possible sainthood.

CATHOLICS around the world marked the third anniversary of Pope John Paul’s death yesterday and Vatican officials said they were receiving a steady stream of pleas from the faithful convinced he was a saint.

THE banners in St Peter’s Square on Friday last proclaimed “Santo Subito.” Translated, it means “a saint now.” The process may take a few years to start, but the faithful were returning their verdict much sooner.