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In traditional belief, “Saint” is a term used to refer to someone who
is a holy person. Over time, the term has grown to be used and accepted in other
contexts, to refer to those who are considered to be exceptionally virtuous or glorified
in heaven.
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Hence a "saint" is usually a deceased person whose life is regarded by
a community as a good example, and their life story is remembered for sake of inspiring
others. |
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Origin of word (Etymology)
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The term saint originated from the 13th Century Old French word “seinte”
meaning both “holy and consecrated” and is derived from the 3rd Century
Latin word sanctus meaning "consecrated" itself from ancient Latin Sacri
"sacred, dedicated, accursed."
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Thus the notion of sainthood has always been strongly associated with the ritual
of consecration apart from claims of holiness. This could partly explain why many
ancient Christian leaders who lived evil and horrendous lives are still able to
be recognized as saints, because “technically” the process is as important
as the existence of any positive virtues.
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This might surprise a great number of people, especially Christians, as they are
led to believe sainthood is a precondition of being canonized. In recent times this
is true in many cases. But more important for the Church has always been loyalty
and tangible protection provided by saints in their lives, rather than overt holiness
and goodness.
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One Heaven definition of Saint
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In contrast, the definition of a Saint in One Heaven is:
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A Saint is a departed person, venerated as an
Ascended Master, having shown clear and unmistakable holiness, heroism and positive
moral leadership in their lives and elected to the office of Saint at least once
under the rules of a Great Conclave according to the constitution of One Heaven.
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Under the constitution of One Heaven, a deceased person can only be called a Saint,
once elected by the combined membership of One Faith of God, One Islam and One Spirit
Tribe once ever 100 years to such a position.
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Nor is the alleged evidence of miracles a requirement for a person being known as
a Saint according to One Heaven.
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Once a deceased person is elected to such a position, they are known as a Honorary
Saint for eternity, whether they hold office beyond one hundred years. A deceased
person holding the office of Saint for more than four hundred years is known as
a Great Saint.
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About > Spirits > Saints
