Philippine Catholic Church sets path for sainthood of lay catechist

By LiCAS News

The official procedure to begin the beatification process of Laureana “Ka Luring” Franco was inaugurated by Bishop Mylo Hubert Vergara of Pasig in a ceremony held at the Basilica of Saint Anne Minor and Archdiocesan Shrine.

The bishop announced the creation of a Historical Commission, tasked with examining Franco’s many writings and contributions to the Church.

The postulator of the cause, Erickson Javier, presented the “libellus supplex” to Bishop Vergara at the event, detailing Franco’s biography and highlighting his virtuous acts as a lay catechist.

In response to the presentation, Bishop Vergara expressed his continued support for the beatification and canonization efforts, emphasizing Franco’s recognition as a servant of God.

Franco, who died in 2011 at the age of 75, was affectionately known as “Ka Luring,” a testament to her profound influence within her community and the Church.

Born into a humble family in Hagonoy, Taguig City, on July 4, 1936, Franco was the eldest of eight siblings. Her family’s commitment to prayer gave her a strong spiritual foundation, leading her to join the Legion of Mary and deepen her devotion to the Virgin.

Her spiritual journey has been marked by important distinctions, including the Mother Teresa of Calcutta Prize awarded by Pope John Paul II in 2002 and the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice Prize in 1990.

Franco’s career grew from a switchboard operator for the Philippine Air Force to a full-time catechist in the 1960s, demonstrating her commitment to her faith and community.

She was notably one of the first lay ministers of the Archdiocese of Manila authorized to administer communion.

His legacy is characterized by his unwavering service to the underprivileged and his simple but profound spiritual life.

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