A woman who is the first Native American to be canonized by the Catholic Church is being honored in Sioux Falls on Sunday.
The Catholic Diocese of Sioux Falls is celebrating the canonizing of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha with a Mass of Thanksgiving at the cathedral.
Tekakwitha was canonized Oct. 21 by Pope Benedict XVI. Deacons Alfred Jetty and Steve McLaughlin Sr. are participating in the liturgy. Both Native American men attended the canonization in St. Peter's Square.
The church says the "Lily of the Mohawks" serves as a model for the unity of the people, leading a life of innocence and firm faith.
A teenage convert, Tekakwitha was baptized at the age of 20.
A bronze statue of Saint Kateri is being installed at the cathedral.
