January 22nd is the feast day of the veneration of the Virgin Laura Vicuña, a model for young people in holy living. From Don Bosco Cambodia, let us celebrate Mass for her and remember her because she is a model for all young women.

In a profound and personal encounter with Jesus, Laura Vicuña lived in the Salesian spirit: contemplation in action. She gave her whole life to God.

Laura quoted Jesus’ words: “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). Laura chose to ask God for the salvation of her mother in exchange for her own life. Within a few months, she fell ill, her health deteriorating as the illness progressed. During a visit to her mother, Manuel Moura attacked her, leaving her injured in bed. Laura’s life was slipping away: “Lord, let me suffer everything that seems good to You, but let my mother be converted and saved.”

Before she died, Laura asked her mother: “I am dying. I personally asked Jesus that two years ago I gave my life for my mother, asking for the grace of her conversion. Mom, before I die, will I be happy to see my mother converted?”