Although many older Catholics are familiar with the cult of the saints, veneration of saints is for many younger Catholics a lost tradition.  Yet this remarkably clear, deeply researched book offers a path through biblical, historical, and systematic aspects of the communion of saints in which those canonized play special roles. This study follows Vatican II's view of the saints as companions, models, and intercessors-that the saints guide us through both the inspiration of their holy lives and their roles in the afterlife. With a comprehensive introduction to the Catholic Church's history of venerating saints, each subsequent study emphasizes the rediscovery of the meaning of veneration and is designed for both academic instruction and personal use. Each chapter also includes a list of important terms and suggestions for additional reading.