Canonization is the process by which the Catholic Church officially recognizes a deceased person as a saint. This involves a thorough investigation of the individual's life, virtues, and miracles attributed to them. The process typically includes several stages, starting with a local investigation and culminating in a declaration by the Pope. Once canonized, the saint is venerated by the faithful, and their feast day is established in the liturgical calendar. Canonization serves to highlight the individual's exemplary life and encourages others to follow their example of faith and virtue.