The Vatican is preparing to give Father Damien, a 19th-century priest, the honor of Sainthood for miracles occurring whilst working in Hawaii.
The unofficial patron saint of those with HIV/AIDS has been officially recognized by the congregation and by Pope Benedict XVI and is now set for canonization.
Belgium born Father Damien spent over 15 years caring for lepers on the island of Molokai, and himself died there of leprosy in 1889.
His story is famed around the globe and has been documented in various books as well as a film starring David Wenham, Sam Neil, Peter O’Toole, Kris Kristofferson and Kate Ceberano.
Father Damien will receive Sainthood in a ceremony in Rome, marked tentatively for the end of 2009, with celebrations also happening in Hawaii.