St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

The first native-born American citizen to be canonized, Elizabeth Ann Seton converted to Catholicism after the death of her husband. Elizabeth and her husband were wealthy and used their status to help the poor and sick. Elizabeth was known for caring for the sick and dying in the community. After her conversion, some members of society looked down upon her for her faith. She established the first Catholic girl’s school in the nation in Emmitsburg, Maryland, and also founded the first American congregation of religious sisters called the Sisters of Charity. Her feast day is January 4, and she is the patron of Catholic schools and the State of Maryland.

Questions for Reflection:

  • If you’ve ever been the victim of negative opinions about your religion, how did you handle it?

  • How can education and religion come together to improve people’s lives? How have they benefitted you?