The Diocese of Pasig in the Philippine capital has formally launched the cause of beatification and canonization of Laureana “Ka Luring” Franco, a lay catechist who served the poor community in her parish.
“According to the initial study of the life story, Christian virtues, and apostolate of ‘Ka Luring’ … there have been numerous reports of favors following her intercessory prayers,” said Bishop Mylo Hubert Vergara of Pasig.
The prelate said that based on documents gathered on Franco, “she has lived a heroically virtuous life worthy of imitation.”
The launching of the cause was held on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of Franco’s death and of the Diocese of Pasig’s observance of the 500th anniversary of the arrival of Christianity in the country.
Bishop Vergara started the diocesan process of inquiry into the life of Franco on Oct, 17, 2020.
The catechist was born to a poor family in Taguig on July 4, 1936. She then became a member of the Legion of Mary and dedicated her life to the devotion to the Blessed Mother.
On April 1, 1990, through the recommendation of Cardinal Jaime Sin, former archbishop of Manila, Franco received the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice award from Saint John Paul II in recognition of her service to the Church as a lay catechist.
Franco also received the Mother Teresa Award for her service to the poor and the needy in 2002. She died on Oct. 17, 2011.
