The First Native American Saint

Lily of the Mohawks © Lawrence Klimecki

The Church does not create saints, rather it follows a process that allows us to recognize certain individuals as holy and enjoying the Beatific Vision of God. "Blessed" is a step in that process that culminates in canonization.

The recent announcement that Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha will be formally "canonized," was understandably met with great joy in the Native American community. Click here to read the story.

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Solemnity of Saint Joseph the Husband of Mary

© 2010 Lawrence Klimecki

Joseph is frequently depicted with a flowering staff, usually lilies. This tradition draws from an ancient legend recounted in Jacobus de Voraigne's Golden Legend:

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