First Native American canonized

Pope Benedict anointed the first Native American to be canonized into sainthood by the Catholic Church on Sunday. 

This was part a ceremony where six others were recognized as saints.

Kateri Tekakwitha was a 17th century Algonquin Mohawk woman, whose miracles were first recognized by the church in 1980. 

Groups of New Mexicans were among the celebrants at Kateri’s canonization, one numbering about 50 and accompanied by Archbishop of Santa Fe Michael Sheehan, and a second of about 200 parishioners from Gallup, led by Bishop James Wall.

First Native American canonized