Her father died when she was only two years old, during the Colombian Civil War, leaving her family in poverty. At sixteen, she became a teacher to help support her family, and she excelled in her studies. While teaching, she felt a strong calling to religious life.

Driven by a desire to serve the Indigenous peoples of Colombia, whom she saw as marginalized and often mistreated, Laura dedicated her life to their evangelization and upliftment. She wanted to “become an Indian with the Indians to win them all for Christ,” recognizing their dignity and seeking to combat racial discrimination. In 1914, she founded the Congregation of the Missionary Sisters of Mary Immaculate and Saint Catherine of Siena, along with four other women, to work among the Indigenous communities. They faced criticism, even within the Christian community, for their work.

The missionary sisters, under Mother Laura’s guidance, worked in remote areas, establishing schools and healthcare clinics. They focused on education, incorporating Indigenous languages and cultures into their curriculum. Laura also became an advocate for the rights of Indigenous peoples, challenging discriminatory practices and advocating for better living conditions. She continued her work even when confined to a wheelchair in her later years. Mother Laura died on October 21, 1949, in Medellín.

Her congregation continues its mission in 19 countries across the globe.

Saint Laura Montoya’s life is a testament to faith, education, and social justice.

She is the patron saint of indigenous people in Colombia and of the Congregation of the Missionary Sisters of Mary Immaculate and Saint Catherine of Siena.