Summary
Michelle Duppong, a North Dakota farm girl and FOCUS missionary, had her cause for sainthood opened by Bishop David Kagan on All Saints’ Day 2022. Throughout her life, which included six years as a FOCUS missionary and two years as director of faith formation at the Bismarck Diocese, Duppong was known for leading people to Jesus and showing what holiness looks like in daily life. Duppong died of cancer on Christmas Day 2015 at age 31. After her death, letters poured in describing graces obtained through her intercession, which brought deep peace and trust in God’s will. Duppong once wrote, “I don’t just want to be a saint, I want to be a great saint.” The bishop noted that most people shared experiencing a profound sense of peace after praying for her intercession. Key lessons Michelle imparted include avoiding gossip as a young schoolgirl, developing a personal relationship with Jesus after college graduation, and emphasizing the impact one person can have in making a difference. Specifically, during an Easter meeting where a student suggested having a “condom hunt,” Duppong’s single voice overrode the decision, advocating for activities that promote virtue instead of vice. Key figures mentioned include Bishop David Kagan and Father Scott Trayie,trar, who served as the students’ chap in South Dakota.
Key Topics
Michelle Duppong, Bismarck Diocese, Cancer
