Native American named a saint

How interesting is that?  The Catholics named Kateri Tekakwitha a saint. 
I suppose any understanding I have of Christianity has a Catholic overtone to it, my hometown was basically entirely Catholic.  I think some variety has sprung up in the past couple years, but when I was young if you weren't Catholic you were strange.  If that's the level of comparison I was VERY strange! It wasn't until later in life I learned that a lot of Christians don't follow the whole saint concept.  I had no idea.  I can't say I understand the concept of saint, it's like they're demi gods.  It's more than recognition of a good person, it's like a demi god.  Overall I just don't understand it.  Apparently to be a saint there has to be proof of two miracles, whether the saint is alive or dead at that point I don't quite understand.  Apparently the second miracle in this case is the recovery and healing of a young boy with a deadly flesh eating bacteria.  It's wonderful that he's better, but how do the Catholics distinguish between modern medicine and prayer? 

I just think it's interesting that they named a Native American a saint.  Sounds great! but the track record of the Catholic and Native American encounters have been a little scary.  I'm uncomfortable with the idea of conversion in general, and I can't help but think to convert Native Americans has contributed to the loss of culture, and the historical destruction of many many people.  Also known as genocide.  So, in terms of Native American Catholics this is amazing for them!  I find the whole thing confusing.

To be honest I think the Catholic ritual is interesting and has some level of beauty....but the pope terrifies me.  I'd have to be dragged kicking and screaming should I ever have to meet that man.