St Kateri Tekakwitha is known as the Lily of the Mohawks. She lived in the 17th century around the St Lawrence River. At age four, she survived a smallpox epidemic that claimed her family and left smallpox scars on her face. When she was 11, she met French Jesuit missionaries for the first time. Despite pressure and opposition from her tribe and family, she converted to Christianity. She eventually fled persecution from her tribe and lived with Jesuit missionaries and other Native Americans who had converted to Christianity. She died of illness at age 24; her last words were “Jesus, Mary, I love you.” Eyewitnesses reported that minutes after her death, her smallpox scars disappeared, and her face turned clear and beautiful.
In a significant milestone, Kateri Tekakwitha was canonized in 2012, becoming the first Native American saint. The Catholic Church celebrates her on July 14 every year, and many venerate her as the patron saint of ecology. Her life and devotion to the Catholic Faith show that the Gospel is meant for all, and indigenous people are no exception.
Thank you for helping KNOM carry on St Kateri’s legacy and broadcast Christ’s message to the people of Western Alaska. This important work would be impossible without your support. St Kateri Tekakwitha, Lily of the Mohawks, pray for us!
