sanctify

/ˈsæŋktɪfaɪ/
verb
  1. To make something holy or sacred, often through a religious ceremony or blessing.
    • They held a special service to sanctify the marriage union.
    • In many traditions, water is used to sanctify people during baptisms.
    • The bishop came to sanctify the new church building.
  2. To give official approval or moral acceptance to something, making it seem right or proper.
    • History often sanctifies the decisions of victorious leaders.
    • The law cannot sanctify discrimination, no matter how it is worded.
    • Some people try to sanctify their selfish actions by calling them necessary.