In a landmark decision that has sparked jubilation across Venezuela, Pope Francis has approved the canonization of Dr.José Gregorio Hernández Cisneros. The proclamation, made on February 24, 2025, by the Vatican, follows a thorough review and favorable votes regarding his sainthood. Dr. Hernández, a lay faithful, was born in Isnotú, Venezuela, on October 26, 1864, and passed away in Caracas, Venezuela, on June 29, 1919. His unwavering dedication to serving the poor earned him the endearing title of “The Poor Doctor,” and now, the catholic Church formally recognizes his exemplary virtues.

The Vatican’s official declaration was made after a hearing granted to Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State, and Monsignor Edgar Peña Parra, substitute for general affairs. The news has been met with widespread party throughout Venezuela,where Dr. Hernández is revered as a national hero, embodying compassion and unwavering faith.

Dr.José Gregorio Hernández’s journey toward sainthood has been a long-held and cherished aspiration for Venezuelans. On april 30, 2021, he was beatified, marking a significant milestone in the canonization process. Cardinal Baltazar Porras, a prominent figure in the Venezuelan Catholic Church, lauded Hernández as a “professor, researcher, and innovator of medicine in Venezuela,” highlighting his profound impact on the nation’s medical landscape.

The meticulous process of recognizing Dr. Hernández’s sanctity involved a thorough examination of his life, his works, and his profound impact on Venezuelan society. Dr. Claudia Antonieta Blanderier bosson de Suárez, of the National Academy of Medicine, has dedicated extensive research and writing to Dr. Hernández’s contributions as both a doctor and a scientist. her work has been instrumental in illuminating the depth of his commitment to medicine and his fellow citizens, providing valuable insights into his character and legacy.

Beyond his dedicated medical practice, Dr.Hernández was also a pioneering figure in public health. He was among the first to raise concerns about the prevalence of Bilharzian infection in Venezuela, demonstrating his commitment to preventative medicine and the overall well-being of the community. His foresight and dedication to public health initiatives set a precedent for future generations of medical professionals in venezuela.

An essential part of the canonization process involved the exhumation of Dr. Hernández’s remains, a procedure overseen by Dr. Enrique Santiago López-Loyo, then President of the National Academy of Medicine (ANM) of Venezuela. This process, a standard protocol within the Catholic Church, was conducted after Pope John Paul II declared Hernández “venerable” in 1986, marking an earlier significant step toward sainthood.

Dr. López-Loyo emphasized the enduring impact of José Gregorio Hernández on Venezuelan medicine, stating that he provided an “excellent academic experience” through his scientific training and work, shaping the future of medical education in the contry.

The World Health Institution (WHO) has raised principles that were already applied by the doctor of the poor at the time: the Primary Health Care as a strategy to maintain balance in the national health system, and the foundation of the call Evidence Based Medicine aimed at achieving a precise diagnosis and not exceeding to make needless exams to the patient.

Cardinal Baltazar Porras shared his profound joy, stating:

the expected day has arrived.Pope Francis has signed the canonization decree of our Blessed José Gregorio Hernández.We can already call it San José Gregorio Hernández.

The canonization of Dr. José gregorio hernández marks a pivotal moment for Venezuela and the Catholic Church, solidifying the enduring legacy of a man who dedicated his life to serving others with unwavering compassion and faith.

Did you know that the canonization of Dr. José Gregorio Hernández signifies not just a religious milestone but also a powerful testament to the enduring impact of selfless service and medical innovation in a nation’s history? This interview delves into the life and legacy of this remarkable figure.

interviewer: Dr. Elena ramirez, a leading expert in Latin American history and religious studies, welcome. Dr. Hernández’s canonization is a momentous occasion.Can you help our readers understand the significance of this event for Venezuela and the catholic Church?

Dr. Ramirez: The canonization of Dr. josé Gregorio hernández is indeed profoundly meaningful.For Venezuela, it’s a national celebration solidifying his status as a beloved national hero and a symbol of faith, compassion, and dedication to the poor.His life embodies the values of caritas, or selfless charity, which resonated deeply with the Venezuelan people. For the Catholic Church, his elevation to sainthood adds another compelling example of a lay faithful who lived a life of remarkable holiness, demonstrating the power of faith in daily life, notably in serving the needs of the vulnerable. His canonization serves as an inspiration for the faithful worldwide.

Beyond the Miracles: Understanding Dr. Hernández’s Enduring Influence

Interviewer: Dr. Hernández is frequently called “The Poor Doctor.” What aspects of his life and work contributed to this enduring title and deep veneration?

Dr. Ramirez: the title “The Poor Doctor” perfectly encapsulates the essence of Dr. Hernández’s life. He was deeply committed to providing medical care to the underserved, frequently treating them without charge. He combined his remarkable medical skills with a profound sense of empathy, embodying the principles of holistic healthcare that emphasize spiritual and emotional well-being alongside physical health. His commitment went beyond simply treating illnesses; he focused on accessible, preventative care and improved community health, making him an early pioneer in public health initiatives. This dedication deeply resonated with the Venezuelan people, transcending social and economic barriers. His compassionate approach became a model for ethical medical practice, a characteristic that continues inspiring medical professionals today.

A Pioneer in Medicine and Public Health

Interviewer: His contributions extend beyond his charitable work, don’t they? Could you shed light on his innovations and impact on Venezuelan medicine?

Dr. Ramirez: Absolutely. Dr. Hernández was a renowned physician and researcher,a true innovator in his field. He was instrumental in introducing advanced medical practices and technologies to Venezuela, considerably improving healthcare standards at the time. He was a staunch advocate for evidence-based medicine, a focus not only on rigorous diagnosis but on the careful request of medical breakthroughs and the overall well-being of the patient. His contributions to the medical progress of Venezuela were matched by his dedication to public health. he was among the first to highlight concerns regarding significant health issues, notably Bilharzia infection, demonstrating a commitment to preventative care and community health improvement strategies.

The Path to Sainthood: A Multi-Faceted Process

Interviewer: The path to sainthood is rigorous. What were the key milestones in Dr. Hernández’s journey to canonization?

Dr. Ramirez: The process leading to Dr. Hernández’s canonization involved a thorough examination of his life. Key steps included:

• Declaration of Venerability: Recognition of his virtuous life by the Church.
• Beatification: Confirmation of a miracle attributed to his intercession.
• Canonization: Confirmation of a second miracle, leading to full recognition as a saint.

each of these stages involved extensive research, scrutiny, and theological review, ensuring thorough investigation of not only the miracles themselves but the evidence of his holiness lived out in daily life, faith, and dedicated service.

Lessons from a life of Faith and Service

Interviewer: What are some key takeaways from Dr. Hernández’s life that remain relevant today, both for medical professionals and individuals in general?

Dr. ramirez: The life of Dr. José Gregorio Hernández offers invaluable lessons:

• The importance of compassionate service: He tirelessly cared for the poor and marginalized, emphasizing kindness and empathy in healthcare.
• The power of faith in action: his deep faith anchored his actions and inspired his unwavering dedication to serving others.
• The value of lifelong learning and innovation: He remained a dedicated researcher and advocate for modern medicine.
• The responsibility of promoting community well-being: he understood that healthcare goes beyond individual treatment and includes addressing broader societal issues of access and prevention.

Interviewer: Dr. Ramirez, thank you for your insightful perspective. This interview has painted a truly enriching portrait of dr. José Gregorio Hernández’s remarkable life and continues legacy. Readers, please share your thoughts and reflections on Dr. Hernández’s canonization in the comments below, or share this interview on social media to inspire others.