Beatified by Pope John XXII, St, Elizabeth Ann Seton is the first native born American to be canonized by the Church. She was born in New York, during the time of the American Revolution, she was an avid reader, especially loving the word of the Lord in the Bible. At a young age, she married William Seton and was happily in love. However, the earthly happiness did not last young. William’s parents died tragically leaving William and Elizabeth with his seven brothers and sisters as well as his father’s import business.
Shortly thereafter, William fell ill and the business suffered financially. Hoping to aid William’s health, the Seton family sailed to Italy but died of tuberculosis while there. With the suffering of death and separation, Elizabeth turned her heart to God and embraced God’s will.
While in Italy, Elizabeth was introduced to the Catholic faith, comforted by the Blessed Virgin Mary and the presence of Christ in the Eucharist. She became Catholic in 1805.
Encouraged by a girls college in Baltimore, Elizabeth was asked to start a school. Elizabeth started the first free Catholic school in the United States. While there, Elizabeth could also raise her own children. She pronounced vows of poverty, chastity and obedience, giving her the name Mother Seton. Today, many groups of sisters originate from the foundation of Mother Seton’s school.
Wife, mother, educator and lover of children and the Lord, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton can speak to many of us in our journey of faith. Her feast day is January 4th.
At The Little Rose Shop, here is how we are celebrating:
- Volunteer at your local school
- Bring a small gift to your child’s teacher, thanking them for their hard work.
- Financially adopt or support children living in an orphanage
- Spend time reading and reflecting on Psalm 23, Elizabeth’s favorite
- Sew the adorable DIY Saint Squishy
- Download our free coloring page
