Josemaria Escriva de Balaguer’s canonization, only 27 years after the Spanish priest’s death, was achieved in remarkably swift time by the Vatican’s saint-making timetables, which often stretch over decades or even centuries. …
Many of Opus Dei’s members come from top professional ranks, including law, medicine, publishing and other businesses.
The many suits and ties, conservative dresses and string pearls worn by the faithful to the ceremony reflected the rather upscale membership of much of the organisation. ….
Opus Dei has rejected charges that it is elitist and secretive, and much of the criticism of Escriva’s personality seemed to be tempered as Catholics saw the pope move along Escriva’s cause for sainthood at a quick pace.