The Essence of Sainthood

Heavenly Citizens: At its core, the Catholic Church recognizes saints as individuals who are in Heaven, enjoying the Beatific Vision of God. This includes both those who have been formally canonized and the countless unnamed faithful who have attained Heaven. The Church believes that these saints form a “great cloud of witnesses” (Hebrews 12:1), exemplifying faith and virtue throughout their lives.
Models of Holiness: Saints are seen as heroes and heroines whose lives of generous surrender to God mirror the total surrender of Jesus Christ. They are celebrated for their spiritual endurance and are considered inspirations for living a holy life, as articulated by Leonard Foley in Saint of the Day.
Recognition, Not Creation: The Catholic Church maintains that it does not create saints but recognizes them. Canonization is the Church’s formal declaration that a person is in Heaven and worthy of public veneration and imitation. This process underscores the Church’s belief in the individual’s exemplary faith and virtues.

Hebrews 12:1 States: "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us."
This verse encourages Christians to focus on their faith and the example of those who have come before them, and to strive for spiritual endurance, discarding anything that hinders their progress.