Who is the most recent saint to die? This question often sparks curiosity and intrigue among Christians and history enthusiasts alike. The answer to this question may not be as straightforward as one might think, as it depends on the specific denomination and the criteria used to define a saint. However, one recent figure who has been recognized as a saint by many is Sister Thea Bowman, who passed away on December 18, 1990.
Sister Thea Bowman, born Theodora Ann Guinther on June 29, 1937, was an American Roman Catholic nun and religious educator. She was a member of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet and is widely regarded as a pioneer in the ministry of African American Catholic sisters. Her work focused on promoting racial reconciliation and fostering a sense of pride in African American Catholic heritage.
Bowman’s journey to becoming a saint began with her early experiences in the segregated South. She grew up in Yazoo City, Mississippi, where she faced discrimination and racial injustice. Despite these challenges, she developed a deep faith and a passion for justice. Her dedication to her community and her unwavering commitment to the Catholic Church led her to become a nun at the age of 19.
After her ordination as a Sister of St. Joseph, Bowman pursued higher education and earned a master’s degree in religious education from Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. She then returned to the South to work as a teacher and pastoral associate. Her efforts to bring the African American experience into the Catholic Church’s liturgy and spirituality were groundbreaking and had a profound impact on the African American Catholic community.
In 1989, Sister Thea Bowman was posthumously awarded the prestigious Catholic Digest Award for her contributions to the Church. Her legacy continued to grow as she was recognized for her advocacy for racial equality and her commitment to the dignity of all people. In 1991, the Diocese of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, opened the cause for her canonization, which was later approved by Pope Francis in 2015.
Although Sister Thea Bowman was not officially canonized as a saint until 2020, she is still celebrated as a modern-day saint by many. Her life and work have inspired countless individuals to pursue justice, peace, and unity within the Church and society. As the most recent saint to die, her memory continues to live on through the lives of those she touched and the ongoing efforts to promote racial reconciliation and inclusivity in the Catholic Church.
In conclusion, the most recent saint to die is Sister Thea Bowman, whose life and legacy continue to inspire and challenge us to embrace the values of love, justice, and unity. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of faith and the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.
