There are individuals whom the Church officially recognizes as Saints. These individuals have their dates added to the Church calendar. Some feast days of saints are celebrated locally, while other feast days of saints are celebrated universally within the Church.
In order for an individual to be recognized officially as a saint, there is an investigation into the individual’s life and their writings. Two miracles need to be granted through this person’s intercession. The process for sainthood can be measured in years or centuries. Right now there is a cause to make Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen a saint so his life and all of his writings are being investigated by the Church.
A saint is someone the Church holds up as a model to be inspiration to fellow Catholics in following Jesus and living the Catholic life in a world which is not always welcoming or appreciative of the Catholic faith. Following Jesus is not easy but it can be done. It takes trust in God and perseverance.
Saints come from all walks of life (poor, middle class, rich, farmer, doctor, children, adults). Some saints died for their faith (martyrs) while other saints lived in convents and yet through their writings inspired and touched the lives of others. Some saints are former popes, while some saints are founders and foundresses of new religious orders. Some saints had visions of Jesus, Mary, St. Joseph, and angels (such as St. Margaret Mary Alacoque).
Saints are individuals who are with God in heaven and have the ability to intercede for and aid those on earth who are struggling to follow Jesus. Perhaps you are struggling with a particular temptation or trying to live your particular occupation in a manner which is also true to the Catholic faith. There are saints who struggled with the very same temptation or chose the same occupation as you. Pray to them for help and guidance.