Exceptional is the fact that he has Knighthoods from two Popes: His Holiness the late Pope John Paul II honoured him as Knight of the Pontifical Equestrian Order of St Sylvester (KSS), and His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI has further elevated him to Knight Commander of the said order (KCSS), in recognition of his pursuit of peace and culture amongst nations.

UNESCO: Detailview | United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

In that sense, admirers of Escriva, who included Pope John Paul II, believe the Spanish saint anticipated the "universal call to holiness" that would be announced by the Second Vatican Council.

NPR: A Glimpse Inside a Catholic 'Force': Opus Dei