The following is a statement from University of Notre Dame President Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C., on Pope Francis approving on Dec. 18 (Monday) the Decree of the Heroic Virtue on Rev. Patrick Peyton, C.S.C., a 1937 graduate of Notre Dame. The recognition gives Father Peyton the title of “Venerable” and is a step in the Cause of Canonization.
“Notre Dame celebrates Pope Francis’ decision to recognize the heroic virtue of Venerable Father Patrick Peyton. With special devotion to the rosary and with a remarkable expertise in the use of modern media for sharing the Gospel, Father Peyton devoted his priestly ministry to encouraging families to pray together. I hope that Venerable Father Peyton will inspire the entire Notre Dame family, and I pray that he continues on the path to sainthood.”