Five Franciscan Friars Move Closer to Sainthood After Beatification

Five Franciscan friars have been beatified, a step toward sainthood.

They were killed centuries ago.

The decision was met with jubilation in South Georgia.

Christianity has flourished there, but Catholics are few and far between.

The beatification recognizes the friars within the Catholic Church.

It also brings celebration to a region where Catholics are a small part of the Christian community.

The friars are now closer to sainthood.