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'Fastest Nun In The West' Faces First Test For Sainthood

archdiocesesantafe.org

An Italian-born nun who challenged Billy the Kid, calmed angry mobs and helped open New Mexico territory hospitals and schools is facing her first test for Sainthood.

The Archdiocese of Santa Fe is hosting Tuesday a "first inquiry" in Albuquerque to present evidence on why Sister Blandina Segale should become a Saint.

Last year, the archdiocese received permission from the Vatican to open her "Sainthood Cause."

Segale, a nun with the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati and an advocate for Hispanics and Native Americans, founded schools in New Mexico and St. Joseph Hospital.

Her encounters with Old West outlaws later became the subject of a CBS series "Death Valley Days" episode, "The Fastest Nun in the West."

She worked as an educator and social worker in Ohio, Colorado and New Mexico.

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