Sister María Luisa Vera received the 2026 Catholic Health Association Lifetime Achievement Award during the Catholic Health Association Assembly Awards Banquet on Wednesday, June 3, in St. Louis, Missouri.
María Luisa was recognized for her more than five decades of dedicated service to marginalized communities through Mercy Ministries of Laredo, Texas, including 15 years as its president. Her lifelong commitment to compassionate care and social justice has made a lasting impact on countless individuals and families.
Click here to read more about María Luisa’s work and this well-deserved recognition.
Laredo community gathers to celebrate Sister María Luisa’s prestigious award
A celebration honoring Sister María Luisa Vera was held at Laredo Medical Center, formerly Mercy Regional Health Center, on Thursday, July 23.
The evening was especially meaningful for María Luisa because, as she exclaimed with great emotion, “All my friends are here!”
More than 150 of her closest friends attended the event, and many others who were unable to be present sent congratulatory messages and greetings. The guests represented the broad range of people who had known and worked with María Luisa throughout her years of ministry in the Laredo community. Attendees included the Laredo fire chief, hospital staff, community outreach workers, current and former board members and los politicos, representing local and state offices.
Deeply involved in the community and the recipient of numerous awards, María Luisa has made many significant contributions to the city of Laredo. Mercy Ministries includes a comprehensive medical clinic serving uninsured patients and a domestic violence shelter founded by Sister Rosemary Welsh and a nurse colleague. The two sisters, along with numerous volunteers, also operate a food pantry from their home on the second Saturday of every month.
Reflections on María Luisa’s impact were woven throughout the evening. Guests described her as someone who “has always advocated for those on the margins,” noting that “people are attracted to her and respect her.” Others recalled that “she always challenged us to be the best we could be,” while one tribute observed that “Sister Vera has been prophetic in her decision-making as a leader.”