Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann today issued this statement regarding the canonization of Blessed Damien de Veuster:

“Father Damien has long stood as a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and devotion to the people of the Hawaiian Islands.

“He devoted his life to helping those who were sick and shunned, gave his life in the service of others, and became a beacon of hope not only for those he loved, but for everyone here in Hawaii and beyond who find meaning and inspiration in Fr. Damien’s example.

“The people of Hawaii join our brothers and sisters around the world in prayer and in celebrating the life and sainthood of a remarkable man.”