The Catholic Church doesn't provide an exact, cumulative number of verified miracles throughout history. This is because the process of verifying miracles is primarily connected to the canonization of saints.
Here's a breakdown of why it's difficult to give a specific number and the key aspects of miracle verification:
* Canonization is the main context: Miracles are most rigorously investigated as part of the canonization process (the process of declaring someone a saint).
* Post-mortem Miracles: Usually, at least two verified miracles are required for sainthood (one for beatification, the step before sainthood, and another for canonization itself). These miracles must typically occur after the death of the person being considered for sainthood.
* Process of Verification: The process is thorough and involves:
* Diocesan Investigation: The local diocese where the alleged miracle occurred conducts an initial investigation.
* Medical Board: A panel of doctors (often non-Catholic) examines medical miracles to determine if there's a natural explanation for the healing. They must conclude that the healing was:
* Sudden
* Complete
* Lasting
* Unexplainable by current medical science
* Theological Assessment: Theologians assess whether the event can be attributed to the intercession of the potential saint.
* Congregation for the Causes of Saints: The findings are sent to the Congregation for the Causes of Saints in Rome, which makes the final judgment.
* Focus on Individual Cases: The Church focuses on verifying miracles in the context of specific sainthood causes rather than compiling an overall database.
Why no overall number?
* Constant Process: The canonization process is ongoing. New causes are opened, and miracles are constantly being investigated.
* Historical Records: The records of older canonizations might not be as detailed or accessible as modern ones.
* Not Every Healing is Reported: Many people who believe they have been miraculously healed through prayer may not report it to the Church.
In summary: While the Catholic Church has verified many miracles throughout its history, mainly in connection with the canonization of saints, it doesn't maintain a running total. The focus is on the individual investigation of each alleged miracle within the context of a specific cause for sainthood.