Two Americans Canonized By Pope Benedict XVI

VATICAN CITY (KTVI)- Pilgrims gathered in Saint Peters Square Sunday as Pope Benedict XVI added seven more saints in a canonization ceremony.  Americans Kateri Tekakwitha, the first Native American saint, and Mother Marianne Cope, a 19th century Franciscan nun who cared for lepers in Hawaii, were among those named as saints.

To be canonized, the Vatican must certify a miracle was performed through the intercession of the candidate, a medically inexplicable cure that can be directly linked to the prayers offered by the faithful.

More information: Mother Marianne Cope Biography

More information: Kateri Tekakwitha Biography