Nation First Female Saint: Argentina is poised to celebrate a historic moment in early 2024 with the canonization of Blessed María Antonia de San José, commonly known as Mama Antula, as the country’s first home-grown female saint. The Vatican’s announcement on October 24 marked a significant milestone for Argentina, Pope Francis, and the Jesuit order. Mama Antula, revered as the mother of the nation, was a resilient woman who passionately believed in the transformative power of Christ in society.
Born in 1730 into a wealthy family, Mama Antula left home at 15, refusing an arranged marriage. Instead of entering a convent, she chose to work with Jesuit priests, dedicating her life to spreading the Word. During the Jesuits’ expulsion from Spain and its colonies in the Americas in 1767, Mama Antula continued their work, traveling over 3,000 miles throughout Argentina. She taught about the church in Quechua, her home province’s language, and Spanish, promoting the idea of an independent Argentina, a dream realized in 1816, over a decade after her death.
In Buenos Aires, Mama Antula founded a spiritual center and charity programs, leaving a lasting legacy. Her letters to Jesuit priests in Europe were compiled into a book, highlighting her role in preserving the Jesuit tradition in Argentina. Today, her spiritual center in Buenos Aires stands as a testament to her enduring influence, and her tomb in the Our Lady of Mercy Basilica has become a significant pilgrimage site, declared a National Historic Tomb in 2014.
Mama Antula’s canonization is particularly poignant for Argentina and the Jesuit order. She will join a select group of saints associated with Argentina, including José Gabriel Brochero, canonized in 2016, and Héctor Valdivielso Sáez, canonized in 1999. The canonization of Mama Antula, the first female saint of Argentina, reflects her indomitable spirit and enduring impact on the nation. Bishop Santiago Olivera, a key figure in the Argentine Episcopal Conference, anticipates further developments in the country’s causes of sainthood, emphasizing the significance of 2024, a year that might also witness Pope Francis’ long-awaited return to his homeland.
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Our Reader’s Queries
Who was the first indigenous woman saint?
The Vatican has made a historic announcement, declaring that Kateri Tekakwitha, a Mohawk woman from the 17th century, will be canonized as a saint. This is a significant moment as Kateri Tekakwitha will be the first Native American to receive this recognition.
Who was the first woman to become a saint?
St. Wilborada, a Swedish woman who passed away in 926AD, was the first female saint to be formally canonized by the Church in 1047. It’s worth noting that while she was the first woman to go through the canonization process, she wasn’t the first female saint overall.
Who is the First Nations Catholic saint?
In 2012, Kateri was declared the first Native American saint. During her journey to sainthood, she formed a close bond with Maria-Thérèse, a fellow Native convert who was around the same age. Together, they delved into their newfound faith and encouraged each other to deepen their devotion. Their friendship was a testament to the power of shared beliefs and the importance of community in spiritual growth.
Who was the first American born female saint?
In 1975, Pope Paul VI declared Elizabeth Ann Seton as the first American-born saint, over 150 years after her passing. Her canonization was a significant moment in American history, recognizing her unwavering devotion to her faith and her contributions to the Catholic Church. Seton’s legacy continues to inspire many, and her story serves as a reminder of the power of faith and perseverance.