St. Laura Montoya
First saint of Colombia and foundress of the Missionary Sisters of Mary Immaculate and St. Catherine of Siena, a community devoted to evangelizing the indigenous peoples of the Colombian rainforest. Orphaned young, educated as a teacher, she felt a profound call to the indigenous peoples whom many in colonial society regarded as beneath the gospel. She lived among them for decades, founding missions, schools, and homes for orphaned children.
Life & Times
Also known as: Laura of St. Catherine of Siena; Mother Laura; Madre Laura · Born: May 26, 1874 · Died: October 21, 1949 · From: Jericó, Antioquia, Colombia.
Patronage
St. Laura Montoya is invoked as the patron of colombia, indigenous peoples of the americas, catholic teachers, orphans. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
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Devotional items honoring St. Laura Montoya, from our Sancta Lumina collection and beyond.
About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Laura Montoya, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.