Filipina Mother Theresa awardee could be the next saint of the Catholic Church

Manila: Laureana Franco, affectionately called “Ka Luring”, was a simple and devoted Filipina catechist, or teacher of young Catholics in her parish.

She was also known for her work with the poor. She died in 2011 at the age of 76. Now, she could be the first Filipina saint, possibly the third to be recognised by the Vatican from this Catholic-majority country of 120 million people.

Saints serve as role models and inspire Catholic Christians. Two Filipino saints, Lorenzo Ruiz and Pedro Calungsod, were previously canonised (official admission of a dead person into sainthood).

Ka Luring, born in 1936, survived World War II and grew up during the difficult post-war years. Raised in poverty, her parents instilled in their children the value of prayer, praying the Angelus and the rosary as a family.

“Ka Luring”, the eldest in a brood of eight, embarked on her lifelong journey as a catechist at St. Anne Parish in Pasig, a suburb of Manila. Her dedication later led her to St. Michael Parish in Hagunoy, Taguig. Each day began early, filled with attending mass, teaching catechism classes, and tirelessly serving the needs of the most impoverished in her community.

Ka Luring's passion and experience were undeniable. She became a cherished mentor not only for new catechists, but also for seminarians and congregations who actively sought her guidance.

She was known for her unwavering support, even fetching seminarians for their weekly classes, fostering lifelong friendships with many who later became priests.

Disturbed by the lack of catechism in her parish, she sought permission to conduct Saturday catechism classes for children under the shade of trees.

Ka Luring's service extended far beyond the shade of trees and classroom walls. When not teaching, she dedicated herself to the poorest in her neighbourhood, visiting and caring for the elderly with unwavering kindness. Her selflessness earned her the trust and friendship of many.

A champion for education, she tirelessly worked to support underprivileged students, actively soliciting funds to ensure they had the opportunity to learn and grow. Testimonies of her influence as a catechist are now being collected as part of the cause of her sainthood, according to Bishop Mylo Vergara of the Diocese of Pasig.

In the 1960s, Ka Luring was known to have worked as a telephone switch-board operator with a government agency. In 1969, Ka Luring made a crucial decision to resign from her job with the Philippine Air Force and enrolled in a catechist’s training course. the eldest in a brood of eight,

Erickson S. Javier, the postulator for Franco's cause, told local media that Ka Luring led a simple, pious life.

Javier also noted that Ka Luring was the first female lay minister in the Archdiocese of Manila and one of only two women authorised to distribute communion. She did not seek financial compensation. Ka Luring saw her mission as lifelong, never planning to retire.  

Beyond teaching, she served the elderly and indigent students, securing funds for their needs. Ka Luring was also known as a “prayer warrior”, for her dedicated prayers and fasting – she often prayed for friends and acquaintances.

“Wise Friar 2020” wrote in a Tagalog language post. “By your example, you've shown us the path to true wealth."

Despite financial struggles, Ka Luring declined a lucrative offer from non-Catholic missionaries to teach catechism for their faith.

She continued her mission, remaining faithful to the Church and dedicated to her work – laughing off accusations of “foolishness” for pursuing unpaid volunteer work.

Ka Luring’s joyful disposition won her many friends, including Jaime Cardinal Sin of Manila. She frequently visited him, and her presence brought him joy and peace. It’s been reported that the cardinal valued her prayers and often sought her counsel.

In December 1989, Cardinal Sin informed her of her selection for the papal award “Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice” for her exemplary service. Initially hesitant, she accepted the award in a simple ceremony on April 1, 1990.

In 2002, she received the Mother Teresa Award, although the cash prize went to a foundation. Despite misunderstandings about her financial situation, Ka Luring remained focused on her mission.

In 1990, Ka Luring received the papal award “Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice”. Twelve years later, in 2022, she was conferred the Mother Teresa Award, though she donated the monetary prize to charity.

Ka Luring died of cancer in 2011, remembered for her simplicity and dedication. Earlier this month (July 2024), Bishop Mylo Hubert Vergara of Pasig announced the Vatican's approval (Nihil obstat) to investigate her beatification and canonisation.

Reported miracles:

Two miracles have been attributed to Ka Luring’s intercession, involving recovery from a car accident in the UK and a heart attack in Pasig.

Awards and misunderstandings:

Mother Teresa Award: Though awarded 500,000 pesos (about $10,000), the prize went to charitable institutions, leading to misunderstandings about her financial situation.

Despite the confusion, Ka Luring remained committed to her mission, helping those in need and maintaining her humble lifestyle.

Bishop’s tribute

Bishop Mylo Hubert Vergara of expressed gratitude for Ka Luring's impact and apologised for any neglect she faced. He also emphasised her contributions and the hope for her recognition as a saint.

The Catholic Church has a long-standing process for determining sainthood, known as canonisation. It's a rigorous investigation to ensure the person lived a truly holy life.

Here's a breakdown of the steps:

1. Servant:

The process typically begins after the person's death, often initiated by their local diocese. Evidence is gathered about the person's life, writings, and reputation for holiness. If there's sufficient evidence, the Pope grants the title “Servant of God”.

2. Venerable:

Further investigation focuses on the person's heroic virtue — meaning they consistently lived Christian values to an exceptional degree. If confirmed, the Pope declares them “Venerable”.

3. Beatification:

To be beatified, one miracle attributed to the person’s intercession after their death needs to be verified. This miracle usually involves healing or a significant answered prayer. Beatification allows veneration of the person within a specific region or religious community.

4. Sainthood (Canonisation):

For canonisation, a second miracle attributed to their intercession is required. The Pope formally declares the person a saint, allowing veneration by the entire Catholic Church.

Additional factors: While not official requirements, a reputation for martyrdom (dying for their faith) or a life of mystical experiences can strengthen the case for sainthood.